How to Make Vintage-Inspired Hat Candy Boxes

18 July

I think vintage candy boxes are much nicer than the cheap plastic and ugly cardboard and tin candy boxes that we see today.

I often wonder, did they know how pretty they were? Is that why people saved them? Were they meant to be keepsakes or were they created as disposable items like many things are now?

I especially like candy boxes that are shaped like little hats, have you seen them? I have had several over the years and have always loved them.

Today I'm sharing how to make your own vintage-inspired hat candy boxes. You only need a few supplies, and they are quite easy to make.

How to Make Vintage-Inspired Hat Candy Boxes

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The candy box in the picture above is a genuine vintage one, isn't it cute?

Supplies

Round Paper Mache Boxes
Scrap cardboard about twice the size of your box
Paper to cover the box and cardboard (I used vintage wallpaper)
Mod Podge
Flowers to embellish (I used vintage flowers)
Coordinating Ribbon
Hot glue gun
White craft glue (I use Aleene's)
Scissors
Utility knife (optional)

I made a video showing how to make these and the written instructions are below that.

Step 1 - Make the hat brim

Use a scrap of cardboard and trace a round object onto the cardboard that is at least twice the size of the paper mache box you'll be using. Use sturdy cardboard that won't bend easily. (I am making two so I traced two circles).

Here are the two boxes I am using with the large cardboard circles cut. When we assemble them, the paper mache box will sit off-center, so that you have a larger hat brim on the front. The vintage box is here to demonstrate what I mean.

Step 2 - Cut the paper pieces

Remove the box lid and measure the circumference of the box bottom (the area around the box) and the height. Add 1/2" to each measurement. (For example: If your box is 12" around x 2" tall, then you'll cut a strip from your paper that is 12 1/2" x 2 1/2".)

Do the same with the box lid measuring circumference and height, then add 1/2" to each measurement and cut out a strip of paper to that measurement.

Trace around the box lid and the cardboard hat brim and cut those out of the paper.

You should have four pieces, a strip for the side of the box lid, a strip for the side of the box bottom, a circle for the top of the lid, and a circle for the cardboard hat brim.

Step 3 - Cover the pieces with paper

Brush some Mod Podge onto the bottom of the paper mache box and the back side of the paper and adhere them together. Line the bottom edge of the box with the edge of the paper so that the extra half-inch is sticking up over the top edge.

Do the same with the box lid.

Cut slits to the edge of the box bottom and box lid about every inch around the paper that is sticking up to create little tabs.

You can use a utility knife to cut the paper all the way down to the edge of the box if your scissors don't get close enough.

Brush some Mod Podge along the little tabs you cut and then fold them over to the inside of the box.

Use the Mod Podge to adhere the paper circle to the cardboard hat brim and use a squeegee or credit card to smooth it out.

Do the same thing with the smaller paper circle, adhering it to the top of the lid.

Step 4 - Attach the box to the brim

Use white craft glue to adhere the box to the brim. Remember to place it off-center toward the back of the brim.

Place something heavy on it and give it at least an hour to dry.

Step Five - Embellish

Use hot glue to add flowers and a bow to the front (make sure you don't glue the lid so it won't open)!

That's it! Add some parchment paper inside and fill it with candy!

The vintage one is on the bottom of this stack.

These would be so fun to give as gifts with some fancy chocolates inside!

Or buy a box of cheap chocolates and ditch the ugly box they came in! 😂

What do you think? Is this something you would keep if you received one?

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Comments by Blogger

AnonymousJuly 18, 2024
OMGosh--I love these!! The littlest one on top is my favorite. I was watching a video on YouTube showing things from years ago (the 1920s, 1930s, 1940s, 1950s, 1960s, even the 1970s), and things used to be so beautiful, so cheerful, so special, so well-make. Why can't we have pretty things anymore?!
NancyJuly 18, 2024
They're both adorable, as well as the original vintage one! I'd definitely be keeping anything like that, that i received as a gift. I always keep pretty packaging when it comes my way!!
Tuula @ Color Me ThriftyJuly 21, 2024
I'd never heard nor seen a hat candy box until now. They're so pretty! And I love that floral wallpaper. Just perfect for the vintage vibe.
AnnaAugust 05, 2024
What a delightful and creative project! Your vintage-inspired hat candy boxes are not only charming but also bring a touch of elegance and nostalgia that is often missing in today's mass-produced packaging. I love the step-by-step instructions and the thoughtful details you’ve included, making it accessible even for beginners. The idea of using vintage wallpaper and flowers adds such a lovely, personalized touch. I can imagine these beautiful boxes becoming cherished keepsakes long after the candies are gone. Thank you for sharing this inspiring DIY – I can't wait to try making my own!