Wednesday, May 4, 2011

Advice for the Graduate Decoupage File Box

When my son graduated years ago, I ordered an "advice for the graduate" jar where guests at his reception would post messages on scraps of paper and put them in the jar.  Since my daughter is graduating, I wanted something similar but couldn't find anything I really liked.  I saw several altered Rolodexes and card files on Etsy but they all were for weddings and showers.  I actually asked a seller if she would be willing to sell just the cards with "graduate" instead of "bride and groom" but never heard back from her so decided to create my own.

I decided to go with a file box but finding the right one was a challenge.  Hobby Lobby didn't have anything that would fit 4 x 6 or 3 x 5 cards so I went over to Office Max.  They had the perfect little tins!  They hold 3 x 5 file cards and come in black or white and actually have a closure on them.  I bought 2 of them and some blank 3 x 5 cards and set out to create a cute little box.

I used scrapbook paper from Hobby Lobby and using Mod Podge, decoupaged it to the box.  Then using Microsoft Word, I was able to recreate the advice cards only in 3 x 5 format.  Figuring out how to print them was also a challenge ... it took me a while to feed them into the manual feed of my HP Laserjet 3050 all-in-one but finally I located the manual feed and by printing 10 at a time (the max it will do), I got a bunch of cards printed up.

All in all, I'm pleased with the results.  I debated putting a bow and charms (grad hat and 2011) on top but decided to go with more of a minimalist approach.  I'm planning on doing another one for my Sisters on the Fly table for the sisters that go to the events I go to to leave their contact information.  Haven't found the perfect paper for that yet but I'm looking.





7 comments:

  1. That is a great idea. It's even better because it's unique. I'm sure it will be a hit at the party.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Thanks for stopping by to see me... I am sister on the fly #1446 - reside in the lone star state!! Stop by anytime and see me!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Cute and a great idea!
    Now if the graduates would just take our advice... and follow it!

    Congrats to the graduate in your home.

    Pat

    ReplyDelete
  4. that is an awesome box and will be a such a wonder keepsake for your grad!

    I look forward to seeing your SOTF box when u locate the paper u want to use.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Do kids really read them, the cards I mean. Isn't it standard that they think they know far more then we adults, until themselves are adults? lol
    Clever idea though, turned out cute. Is your daughter going on to grad school after graduation?
    Swinging by all Bridge members this morning to remind everyone, the contest is in full swing. Hope to see you soon and often.
    Sandy

    ReplyDelete
  6. Yea! blogger is working again. That is the best idea, I have never seen that, you did a fabulous job! I lost my last post, but had saved your comment before blogger crashed, I am following you back and good luck on my giveaway!! Great to meet you

    Carol

    ReplyDelete
  7. That is such a cute idea!! I befriended you with my 2 different blogs :) Did you watch Survivor last night?
    Rene'

    ReplyDelete