For little treats and treasures. This swan favor box is super easy to make. And I’ve made the template in two sizes for you (I demonstrate below using the larger size).
*This tutorial contains affiliate links – meaning I get a small commission if you purchase through the link.
download the template
You will need:
- the large or small swan box template
- heavy paper – mixed media paper, card stock or watercolor paper all work
- exacto knife
- masking tape
- glue
- paint (I used water color)
- pencils
- scissors
- paper clips
- clothespins
- optional – hanging string or ribbon
Notes before you begin:
The boxes are easy to make but tracing and cutting accuracy are very important. Also, please read through the steps before beginning.
1. Cut out a swan template (I’m using the large) and use the pencil to poke holes through the three dots on the pattern. Use the exacto knife to cut the tab slot lines on the pattern. Place the template on your heavy paper and use a few little pieces of masking tape to keep it in place. Trace around the edge.
* click the images for a larger view
2. Mark the 3 dots with your pencil.
3. Lift up the tab slot and trace that edge.
4. Using the tail dot as a guide draw the straight score lines.
5. To draw the 2 curved score lines cut the line and trace them. You can tape the template back together after.
6. Use the back of the exacto knife to lightly score all the lines you drew.
7. If you would like to add a hanging string use a large embroidery needle to poke holes through the two dots on the tab. Gently erase all the pencil lines.
8. Turn your swan over and paint. I also made the smaller size and painted that one black (for that one I painted both sides.
I like simple, quick gestural painting for the swans. Make a few quick strokes in shades of gray water color and used just a little orange for the beak. I’m using a koi water color box and mudder water brushes. I love both of these items deeply. *FYI – I get a small commission if you purchase through the links. Add some lines on the feathers in pencil or pen. I used pencil and sprayed them with a fixative so they won’t smudge. I made a curvy line for the eye with a black pen.
9. Beginning with the tail gently fold along the score lines.
10. Next fold up the sides.
11. Gently shape the curved score lines too.
12. Apply glue to the front as shown and press the sides together.
13. Use paperclips or a weight to hold the sides together while tit dries.
14. When the front is dry apply glue to the tail and bend one side of the bottom tail feathers over the back.
15. Clamp with a clothespin and gently curl up the end with you finger. Let the tail dry.
16. Repeat for the other tail feather.
17. Curl the ends of the middle feathers over a pen.
18. Add a string or ribbon if you like.
19. Tuck the tab into the slot by pressing down to close the box.
20. Finally curl the feather under the top feather up a little.
I hope you make lots of swan boxes!
meet gustav! by Melanie
