How Can I Decorate My Box?

Now that you have an Antique Lap Desk that you cherish, how can you decorate it, or make it your own? Well, over the years, I’ve seen a number of ways to do this. In many cases, there is nothing further to do with a box, they are beautiful works of craftmanship to begin with. In other cases, I would not recommend making any changes based on ruining its re-sell value (or if you are planning to keep it in family for many generations). There are ways of making subtle changes that can add a little “pop” to any box.

Let’s get to it — on we go….

1. Changing the Baize on the bottom of box. In most cases these are green or black in traditional boxes, but they don’t have to be! They can be of any decorative cloth you feel goes best with your box. These baizes, after all, are there to protect your box and furniture when you place it down. In the past I have seen a number of clever ways to “jazz” up your baize. Remember, if yours is already old and peeling, why not add a bit of your style to the box? It could be plaid flannel, poncho, leather, or even silk — choose a design and run with it. Please remember that the material needs to protect box — but once it fulfills this prerequisite, then it’s up to you on what you can place at the bottom of the box.
2. Adding material covers for your interior storage compartments. In this case you can use any color and material you see fit. My personal preference is to see natural woods whenever possible, but with some boxes you might want to see how it looks. Let’s say you have a secret compartment – why not use your favorite color in velvet? It makes a sharp statement and really, it’s only for you. It also protects what you put in there. On the larger interior storage compartments you can use a nice leather, or felt that is pleasing to the eye. 
3. Get some colorful tabs to open or close your interior lids (if it was not built in already). In many cases you can use sticker tabs, or create cloth (or whatever material your heart desires) tabs of your own. I prefer triangle tabs in many cases over rectangle ones. Place them where you want instead of the traditional way of placing them on interior of lids (inside writing slope surface area). 
4. Bring it into the modern world — add tech devices. There are so many speakers nowadays, that you can keep things in your box, that in the past would not fit. It is not just for papers and writing — it is for your enjoyment!! Listen to music while you write or paint. Recharge your phone while you take care of a couple notes. Have a mini-clock displayed while you gather your thoughts. You’re in charge, see what you can think of. 
5. Build an additional piece of furniture to hold your box. In some cases antique boxes come with their own stands — but if they don’t, think of the creative license you can take. It can be of any material, any size, and color — again, depends on your creativity and how you see fit.
6. Make or buy a decorative sleeve. In many cases your box can get dusty constantly or get scratches over time — sleeves can help with these two negatives… and also add a bit of “pizzazz”.
7. Add art (painting or carving) to some small piece of your box. Please only do this if you are a good artist or your hire someone to do a custom job. In the past I have seen family portraits or small images in boxes that have drawn the eye. Let’s say you love horses… add a small horse to the side of an interior lid, who is going to see it. By the way, I love horses!
8. Lastly, get a decorative tassel!!! Let your Key have style, it is the first and last thing you look at, why not make it colorful!!

Hopefully I have given you some good ideas — if you have any more email me or send a photo of your decorative features, always love seeing new stuff.