How to make a Japanese box using Yuzen paper

This Japanese box can be used for storing anything small, like jewelry or keepsakes.
My wife is using it to keep jewelry.


There are two ways of making this box. The easier way is using spray glue entirely
(1). The second follows a method closer to the traditional technique similar
to paper mache and the result is a more textured surface. The downside is that
the second option, being more organic, often results in unpredictable bends
on the board and is more difficult to be accurate. Inaccuracy, however, can
be a really nice feature of your craft is it reveals the handmade quality. In
this workshop I have highlighted with green the parts pertinent to method No.1.


These instructions are for the more traditional method but I will make notes
in between for those that are interested in the first method. The box is 12cmsq
and is decorated with Japanese Yuzen paper and crape paper as lining.

Materials:

Knife cutter

Boxboard (about 4 A4 board)

PVA glue

2 x A4 sheets of Japanese Yuzen paper

Black crape paper

20cm of string

2 beads

1 brush

Spray glue

Sticker paper backing (optional)

1. Cut 6 squares of 12cm x 12cm of 2mm thick boxboard or similar.
2. Now cut 7 smaller squares subtracting the thickness of the boxboard on all
sides and allowing for the thickness of the crape paper and some glue. E.g.
12cm-(0.03cmx4) = 11.88cm2
3. Stick together two of the smaller squares to be used for the lid.