Quick Answer

For a quick and satisfying kids' craft, use the Melissa & Doug Decorate-Your-Own Wooden Heart Box kit and follow these simple steps to paint, add gems, and seal your design.

Why This Craft Kit Works for Kids

The heart-shaped wooden box gives kids a sturdy surface that's easy to hold and decorate. Unlike paper crafts, the finished box can hold small treasures, making the activity feel purposeful.

The kit includes paint, gems, glitter, and glue, so you don't need to buy extra supplies. That makes it a good choice for a quick afternoon project or a party activity.

Trade-Off: Small Size Means Small Details

The box measures 3.25 x 2.75 x 1.5 inches, so it's compact. Younger kids might find the small surface a bit tricky for big brush strokes. Older kids can enjoy adding fine details with the brush included.

If you're crafting with a toddler, you might want to help with the glue and gems to avoid spills. The small size also means it's easy to store or display once finished.

Step-by-Step Decorating Guide

  1. Prepare Your Workspace: Cover your table with newspaper or a plastic mat. Lay out all the kit pieces so kids can see what they have. This prevents mess and helps kids plan their design. Checkpoint: Make sure the box surface is clean and dry before painting.
  2. Plan the Design: Let your child sketch a simple design on paper first. Decide where the paint colors will go and where gems might be placed. This reduces frustration and helps kids think ahead. Checkpoint: Keep the design simple—too many colors can look messy.
  3. Paint the Box: Use the brush to apply a base coat of paint. Let it dry completely before adding a second coat or details. Thin layers dry faster and look smoother. Checkpoint: Wait for the first coat to dry to avoid smudging.
  4. Add Gems and Glitter: Apply a small amount of craft glue to each gem and press it onto the painted box. For glitter, brush a thin layer of glue where you want sparkle, then sprinkle glitter over it. Shake off the excess. Checkpoint: Use glue sparingly to prevent drips and keep gems in place.
  5. Let It Dry and Seal: Allow the decorated box to dry completely, ideally overnight. If you want extra protection, you can apply a clear craft sealer (not included) to keep paint and gems from chipping. Checkpoint: Test that the lid opens and closes smoothly before storing treasures.

Product Details

  • Decorate-Your-Own Wooden Heart Box: This kit includes a heart-shaped wooden keepsake box (3.25" x 2.75" x 1.5"), glitter and craft glue, colorful gems, 4 pots of paint, and a brush. Everything you need is in one box, so you can start crafting right away without extra shopping.

    Decorate-Your-Own Wooden Heart Box

    Decorate-Your-Own Wooden Heart Box