DIY Pet in a Box

This pet in a box will most certainly delight young girls. They take about an hour to make, and they're extremely handy if you've just forgotten it's your niece's birthday. (*cough* I didn't forget Rosalie's birthday *cough*) They're also great stocking stuffers and they fit in those little party bags.

What you need:

1. A mint box (mine were Impact Mints, but as far as I know they only sell in Asia and Australia)
2. Paint
3. Paint brush
4. Felt
5. Cotton
6. Needle and thread
7. Glue (Optional)
8. A felt plushie template (optional)
9. Seed beads (optional)
10. Ribbon (optional)
11. Alcohol rub

After you've eaten your mints, pop the cover out of the box using your paintbrush. Then, clean your box out with some alcohol rub, or water.

Then, paint the box. Open it up so you can cover both ends. Remember to do the sides of the box as well!

Make sure your template can fit inside your mint box!

Cut your felt out, and start sewing. At this stage, you should add your seed beads and the hands and feet. After that, add the cotton and sew it shut, and finally sew the ears and the other loose parts, like the tail.

Why not add a pillow and a mattress?

I used velvet, but it really is up to you. You can stick it in, or you can just leave it alone.

Get your ribbon and wrap it up!

I made my ribbon rose using a handy little trick every crafter should know.

http://www.wikihow.com/Make-Silk,-Satin-or-Ribbon-...

You can add some little plastic gems to the box to decorate it any way you want to!

Have fun making your own pet in a box!