Another year of school – another pile of kid art. And some of it is just too precious to toss. So, how do you preserve kid art and those amazing mementos throughout the year (class portraits, letters to each other, photos) – without living in a kid decorated museum?
I love the idea of creating a memory box. It’s not only a project my kids and I can do together, but it’s a beautiful way to show them how much I cherish their work and the year they’re about to have. This is a great thing for them to keep in their room and manage themselves.
I also suggest writing a letter to your child each year, telling them a little about the person they are, how you feel about them, and encouraging them to tackle certain goals this school year. Then fold it up and keep it in this box for them to read throughout the year.
Here’s an example — and the longer version of my letter to my daughter
This is what we used:
Note: these are the materials used in the video. Feel free to accessorize on your own
- Collapsible Gift Box White Glossy 10″ sq. x 4-1/2″
- Decretive roll of paper
- Chalkboard Adhesive Label
- Decorations, such as butterflies and large gem sequins
- Hot glue gun (optional)
- Modge Podge Glue
- Photos
- Large Manilla Envelope 9″ x 12″
Directions:
Step 1: Measure and cut the gift-wrapping paper to the appropriate length of each side of your box.
Step 2: Add a layer of Modge Podge to one side of the box (best to start at the bottom and leave the top last), press lightly and flatten edges. Add a layer of Modge Podge on top of the paper to create a clear, glossy, hardened effect. Let dry for 4-6 hours.
Step 3: Add decorative effects and photos, using the glue gun for more support. Label with the school year or child’s name. We used a chalk-board sticker, so I can use the box year after year.
Step 4: On the inside lid of your box, glue the large manila folder. This is where you can add small mementos, photos, hand written letters, etc.
Now you’re ready to save that (precious) stuff! At the end of the year, you can sort through all the stuff together, and choose some of the best things to save (in a more water-proof airtight box). And then keep this memory box going for the next year’s treasures!
Also, in case you’re tight on room, here are some more space-saving ways to preserve kids artwork and memories during the year:
- Take photos of the projects and create annual books on a site like Shutterfly
- Upload to an app like Artkive
- Limit to 10 saved projects a year, and store in one air-tight, waterproof memory box
- Rotate favorite pieces in a few 8×11 picture frames
How do you store your kids’ art projects? Share your ideas in the comments below!
