Thinking "outside" of the boxes...

Before I head out to get started on a vintage bed I'm working on (I will share at a later date!), I wanted to post these fun altered wooden purse boxes I've been working on for Mom. My Mom had originally requested a handmade nameplate for her co-workers, but when I couldn't find the proper plating to use, I decided to go with these wooden boxes! They are dual purpose and can also be used as pencil/pen holders or filled with goodies and tied off with cellophane and ribbon. I wanted to do a little more than just put their names on the front. You need something just as pretty for the backside as well, so I opted to use some quotes on the back. I loooooooved getting in my button jar and going a tad overboard here. The buttons add a vintage flair with the modern papers I used.It's been awhile since I made tags so I thought it would be neat to use on the backside here. The tag fit perfect without covering up some of the bright colored details in the patterned paper. The ribbon I used on this handle is from May Arts and comes already "ragged"...thought it went better with the paper vs. an overload of buttons.Mom's is a little more custom to her taste! I surprised her with a hot cup-o-joe and added some Crystal Effects for a 3-D effect on the liquid coffee! FUN! FUN!I will probably make up some more of these for Teacher Gifts this year. I'd make them ahead of time and fill them closer to the holidays. Hopefully I keep to my word and NOT wait until last minute!