Fabric Wedding Money Box: Diy Guide

Creating a wedding money box with fabric is a fun and budget-friendly way to add a personalised touch to your special day. In this guide, we'll show you how to make a stunning fabric-covered box that can be used to collect cards and monetary gifts from your guests. With just a few simple steps, you'll be able to create a beautiful and functional addition to your wedding décor. So, let's get started on crafting this unique wedding essential!

Choosing the right fabric

Type of Fabric

The type of fabric you choose will depend on the desired look and feel of your wedding money box. Common fabric choices include cotton, satin, tulle, and quilting cotton. Consider whether you want a smooth and sleek finish or a more textured and rustic look. The fabric should also be durable and easy to work with.

Colour and Pattern

The colour and pattern of the fabric will set the tone for your wedding money box. Choose a colour that complements your wedding theme and colour palette. Consider whether you want a solid colour, a subtle pattern, or a bold print. The fabric's colour and pattern should also be something that the couple getting married will appreciate and that will photograph well.

Amount of Fabric

Determining the amount of fabric required will depend on the size of your box and the complexity of your design. As a general guideline, 2-3 yards of fabric should be sufficient for covering a standard-sized box. However, it is always a good idea to have a little extra fabric on hand in case of mistakes or last-minute design changes.

Fabric Weight and Thickness

Consider the weight and thickness of the fabric. Thicker fabrics, such as quilting cotton or canvas, will provide a more structured look, while lighter fabrics, such as silk or chiffon, will create a softer appearance. The weight and thickness of the fabric will also impact the ease of handling and the overall durability of the money box.

Fabric Durability and Ease of Care

Choose a fabric that is durable and easy to care for. Consider whether the fabric will need to be washed or dry-cleaned after the wedding. Look for fabrics that are less likely to stain or wrinkle, especially if the money box will be used at an outdoor wedding or in a venue with limited climate control.

Fabric Adhesion and Workability

Select a fabric that can be easily adhered to the box using glue, spray adhesive, or other methods. Some fabrics may require special treatments or backing for better adhesion. Consider the techniques you will use to attach the fabric to the box and choose a fabric that is compatible with those methods.

Cutting the fabric

The first step in creating your fabric-covered wedding money box is to cut the fabric to size. You will need two pieces of fabric for the top and bottom of the box, and one long piece to wrap around the sides.

For a 12x9x9 cardboard box, cut two pieces of fabric about 13"x10" for the top and bottom. Then, cut a long piece of fabric about 45"x11" for the sides. This piece should be long enough to wrap all the way around the box, with a slight overlap at the back.

If you want to add a fold-over lid to your box, like in the fabric gift box tutorial, you will need to cut the fabric for the lid/top piece a bit larger. Cut a rectangle of 5" x 15 3/4" for the top piece, and follow the instructions to create a lid that folds over and secures with a snap.

For a more complex design, you can create a custom tiered wedding card box by cutting slits in the fabric and gluing down the edges with adhesive spray. This will give your box a unique, modern look.

When cutting the fabric, it is important to be precise and measure twice to ensure your fabric pieces fit perfectly around your box. It is also a good idea to cut the fabric with about 1/2" of extra fabric all around, to account for any shrinkage or uneven edges.

Once you have cut all your fabric pieces, you can move on to the next step of assembling your wedding money box.

Attaching the fabric to the box

Now that you have your fabric and box ready, it's time to attach the fabric and transform your box into a beautiful wedding money box! Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare the Fabric and the Box:

• Cut two pieces of fabric, each measuring about 13"x10". These pieces will cover the top and bottom of the box.
• Cut a long piece of fabric measuring approximately 45"x11". This piece will wrap around the sides of the box.
• Close the flaps of your box and secure one side with tape. Use a stapler to close the other side, allowing you to open the box later without destroying it.

Step 2: Apply Fabric to the Top and Bottom:

• Add fabric fusion glue around the edges on the top side of the box. You can use a brush to lightly apply the glue, brushing it towards the centre.
• Place one of the 13"x10" fabric pieces on top, leaving a 0.5-inch fabric hangover all around. Smooth the fabric outwards from the centre towards the edges.
• Allow the glue to dry for a minute or two, and then repeat the process for the bottom side of the box.

Step 3: Wrap the Fabric Around the Sides:

• Take the long piece of fabric and wrap it around the sides of the box. Ensure that the long side is folded in by about 1 inch to create a smooth edge.
• Secure the fabric by pinning down the edges with pearl pins. Use 2-3 pins on each side for a stable hold.

Step 4: Secure the Fabric:

• Cut the fabric on top of the slot, and use double-sided tape to secure the fabric. Fold the excess fabric inside the box and tape it down.
• Alternatively, you can use adhesive spray to glue down the edges of the fabric, especially if you are using stretchy fabric.

Step 5: Embellish and Decorate:

• Add trim or additional fabric fusion glue on top of the boxes for extra security and decoration.
• You can jazz up your box with ribbon roses, or any other embellishments of your choice.

Your wedding money box with fabric is now ready! Feel free to add your personal touches and decorations to make it even more special.

Using glue to secure the fabric

Prepare the Box and Fabric

Before you start gluing, gather your materials and prepare your workspace. You will need a cardboard box, fabric of your choice, fabric fusion glue, and a brush for applying the glue. Ensure your box is taped or stapled shut, and cut your fabric pieces to size. You will need two pieces for the top and bottom of the box, and one long piece to wrap around the sides.

Gluing the Fabric to the Box

• Apply a thin layer of fabric fusion glue around the edges on the top side of the box. You can use a brush to lightly brush the glue onto the box, being careful not to use too much to avoid any unsightly lumps or bumps.
• Wait a minute or two to let the glue become tacky. You don't want it to be too wet, as this could cause the fabric to pucker or wrinkle when applied.
• Place one of the 13"x10" fabric pieces on top of the glued area, leaving half an inch of fabric hanging over all around. Smooth the fabric outwards from the center towards the edges to avoid any air bubbles or creases.
• Repeat this process for the bottom side of the box.
• For the long fabric piece that will wrap around the sides, apply glue to the box in sections, working on one side at a time. Start at the center and work your way out, smoothing the fabric as you go. Overlap the edges of the fabric slightly as you move around the box to ensure full coverage.
• Allow the glue to dry completely before handling the box too much, to prevent any shifting or movement of the fabric.

Finishing Touches

Once the glue is dry, you can add any final decorations to your wedding money box. You can add ribbons, fabric roses, or other embellishments to give it a personalized touch. This project is a creative and budget-friendly way to add a unique element to your wedding, and the finished product will be a beautiful keepsake of your special day.

Adding decorations

Fabric Flowers

Fabric flowers are a beautiful and elegant way to decorate your wedding money box. You can make these yourself using the same fabric that you used to cover the box, or choose a contrasting colour or pattern to add interest. Simply cut petal shapes from your chosen fabric, layer them together, and secure with a button or bead in the centre. Attach the flowers to the box using glue or pins.

Ribbons and Bows

Ribbons and bows can add a touch of luxury to your wedding money box. Choose a ribbon that complements the colour or pattern of your fabric. You can use it to create a bow on the front of the box, or wrap it around the box and secure it with a bling-bling bouquet buckle. If you want to add extra sparkle, pin on some ribbon roses.

Mesh Ribbon

For a modern and unique look, consider using mesh ribbon to decorate your wedding money box. You can find mesh ribbon in various colours and widths, so you can choose one that fits your wedding theme. Simply wrap it around the box and secure it with glue or pins.

Paint

If you want to add a pop of colour or a personal message to your wedding money box, paint is a great option. Choose a paint colour that will stand out against your fabric and carefully paint your design onto the box. You could write the couple's names and wedding date, or simply add some decorative swirls or patterns.

Personalised Card

Another idea is to attach a personalised card to the front of the box. You can write a message to the happy couple, add their names and wedding date, or even include a photo. This is a great way to make the box even more special and unique.

Frequently asked questions