Creating A Square Wedding Cake Card Box

Making a wedding card box is a great way to save money and add a personal touch to your special day. In this article, we will teach you how to make a square wedding cake card box, perfect for fitting in with the rest of your wedding decor. This DIY project is simple and can be customised to match your wedding colours and theme.

Purchase three boxes of various sizes

To make a square wedding cake card box, you can purchase three boxes of various sizes. The boxes can be round or square, but they should be graduated in size, with one fitting inside the other. The smallest box should be large enough to cut a slot in its top to accommodate the average greeting card. You can find such boxes in craft stores or online.

For a sturdier option, consider purchasing hat boxes with lids. These boxes typically come in round or square shapes and can be stacked to create a tiered cake effect. Again, ensure that the smallest box is large enough to cut a card slot, and the largest box is big enough to hold the expected number of cards.

When purchasing the boxes, consider the overall size and height of the finished card box. You want to ensure it is proportionate to the wedding cake and fits comfortably on the gift table.

Cut a slit into the smallest box

Now that you have your set of papier-mâché nesting boxes, it's time to start crafting your wedding cake card box! The first step is to cut a slit into the smallest box. This box will be the top layer of your three-tiered cake design.

Before you begin cutting, decide whether you want to cut the boxes first and then cover them with paint or wallpaper, or if you'd rather cover them first and then cut. If you choose to cut first, your edges will likely be neater, but if you choose to cover first, you can avoid the tedious task of wrapping and gluing the edges. If you go this route, be sure to use a very sharp box cutter or X-acto knife to ensure clean edges.

When you're ready to cut the slit, use a ruler and pencil to mark the dimensions. The slit should be centred on the box and long enough to accommodate standard greeting cards—mark a line about the length of a greeting card and no more than 1/2" wide. If you plan to add a topper to your cake box, position the slit off-centre and towards the back of the box.

Carefully cut along the marked line with your box cutter or X-acto knife. If your edges are a bit messy, use the X-acto knife to clean them up. And that's it! You've successfully cut a slit into the smallest box. Now you can move on to the next steps of creating your wedding cake card box.

Trace and cut the same size hole from the lid to the middle box

Now that you have cut a hole in the lid of the smallest box, you will need to repeat this process for the middle box. Take the lid of the middle box and place it on top of the middle box, ensuring that the lid is centred. Using a pencil, carefully trace around the inside of the hole in the lid, creating a circle on the surface of the box.

Remove the lid and, using a sharp knife or a pair of scissors, cut out the circle you have just drawn. Try to cut as close to the pencil line as possible, leaving around 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space inside the circle you have drawn. This will ensure that the top layer of the box can sit securely on the middle layer without falling through the hole.

Repeat this process for the lid of the middle box, tracing and cutting a circle of the same size as the one you have just cut. This will allow wedding cards to pass through the middle box and collect in the bottom box.

Paint the boxes white or in a colour similar to your wedding cake

Painting the boxes is a crucial step in achieving the desired look for your wedding cake card box. Here are some detailed instructions to guide you through the painting process:

Before you begin painting, it is essential to ensure that the surfaces of the boxes are smooth and free of any imperfections. Use fine-grit sandpaper to gently sand down any rough areas or uneven edges. Wipe away any dust or debris with a soft cloth or a tack cloth. A smooth surface will ensure that your paint application is uniform and free of blemishes.

It is recommended to use a primer suitable for the material of your boxes (paper mâché or cardboard) to create a base coat. Primer will not only help the paint adhere better but also provide a more consistent finish. Apply a thin and even coat of primer to all surfaces of the boxes, including the lids, using a paintbrush or a foam brush. Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.

When selecting the paint for your project, opt for a type of paint that is suitable for the material of your boxes. Acrylic paint or spray paint are commonly used options. If you choose to use spray paint, be sure to work in a well-ventilated area and follow the safety instructions on the can.

If you prefer a traditional paintbrush application, use a small or medium-sized brush for more control. Start by painting the exterior surfaces of the boxes, including the sides and bottoms. Apply the paint in thin and even coats to avoid drips and brush strokes. Allow the paint to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Once the exterior surfaces are painted and dried, focus on the lids. Paint the lids in a colour that matches or complements the colour of your wedding cake. You can also add a personal touch by using one of your wedding colours for the lids. Again, apply thin and even coats of paint and allow adequate drying time.

After the paint has dried, carefully inspect the boxes for any areas that may require touch-ups. Use a small paintbrush to make any necessary adjustments or to reach any missed spots. Allow the touch-ups to dry completely.

Remember to protect your work surface during the painting process and consider wearing protective gloves to avoid getting paint on your hands.

By following these detailed instructions, you will be able to paint your wedding cake card boxes beautifully, creating a cohesive and elegant look for your special day.

Add decorations to finish the project

Now for the fun part: decorating your wedding cake card box! You can hand-paint designs, hot glue on pearls or beads, or use rub-on appliques with your monograms. You can also add silk flowers to the top of the box using a hot glue gun, just make sure not to block the card slot.

Try to keep your decorations in the style and tone of the wedding. If you want a fondant cake look, add ribbons around the bottom of each layer and a loopy bow on top. If the wedding has a fun theme with bright colours, cut out polka dots from scrapbooking paper or make a fun topper from a children's toy.

For a more elegant look, glue some iridescent ribbon cut into 4-inch lengths into loops and glue them to the top box, making sure to stay clear of the card slot. Then, glue some large silk roses on top, followed by small loops of wired pearls. You can also use wired pearls around the bottom of each layer to cover any ugly edges, and glue a strip of scalloped wedding-look lace around the edge of each box lid to look like decorative frosting.

Finally, make a tent card from scrapbook paper with the word "Cards" written on it, so guests know this isn't a real cake!

Frequently asked questions