Matchbox Series #1 - Bird

Hey Sistahs! Remember when altered matchboxes were a thing? Everyone was making them and swapping them and trying to shove tiny trinkets inside as "extras"...=) I have fond memories of making and receiving altered matchboxes. They were probably my very first introduction to the world of altered art.

So I'm going to host this first altered matchbox swap and we'll see how it goes. I'd like to do a series of them, maybe five or so, with each having a different theme. I picture them strung together on ribbons and hanging across the fronts of our crafting tables!

You will have one partner and you will send her one altered matchbox. If you want to put a tiny surprise inside that's fine but it isn't required.

The theme for this swap is "birds". Use the small matchbox (dollar tree sells a pack of 12 I believe), but you can find them at almost any drugstore, convenience store or supermarket as well). Empty out the matches and decorate the box, inside and out. You can let the box remain open when finished, in which case you might want to glue the sides so it's permanently open. Or not! Have it opening and closing like a true matchbox if you like. You are the artist and you make it however you want to.

Make something you're proud of and mail securely so it doesn't get crushed. Have fun!!!

Oh, and if you do some digging, you can find free templates online to make matchboxes. Those are just fine to use. Just use cardstock so your box is sturdy.