This guide will give you hints and tips on creating beautiful mementos utilizing old treasures, new doo dads, inexpensive accents and photos. Giving a gift that’s made from the heart is always a wonderful idea. Giving a gift that’s inexpensive and quick to make is even better.

Modgepodge

½ inch foam brush

Dryer sheet

Old box, jewelry box, or any heirloom

Photograph

Thin piece of protective plastic – same size as the photograph

Decorative Accents if desired

I took an old satin padded jewelry box that was my Grandmother’s and placed a dryer sheet inside while completing the decorative top. This is just a simple, quick technique when dealing with older items that may have a musty, dusty or nicotine smell to them.

I found a picture of my Grandmother holding her son, my Dad. It’s not the best picture, it’s a bit faded and frayed, but it is the only one of my Father as a baby. The picture was in an old cardboard/satin covered frame, with a plastic cover over the photo.

After cleaning the outer jewelry box with a mild soapy solution, and drying thoroughly,

I added a thin layer of Modgepodge to the entire top.

I then secured the frame, photo and the thin plastic sheet to the top.

I let this dry for 12 hours.

Lastly, I applied a thin layer of Modgepodge over the entire top of the project.

On this particular project, knowing my Grandmother’s personality, I did not add any accents on top. She was a purist and simple. For yours, you could add, flat-bottomed jewels, pressed or dried flowers, ribbons, seashells, etc.

This project is so easy to make, and can be given as a sentimental gift to anyone, for any occasion.

If you found this guide helpful please press "yes" at the bottom, I appreciate your support.