Pumpkin Treat Boxes

I have to let you in on a little secret. This new mom of a college student is struggling! It has only been six weeks since my son, Daniel, unpacked his bags at college. There is barely a day that goes by that I don't think about him and pray for him. It is so exciting to see him flourishing at college. Still, I feel like I need to spoil my big guy and his roommate.

This weekend I pulled out 2 Crystal Light plastic packages that I have been saving for this project. They were the perfect size for stashing candy, gift cards, laundry quarters, gum, or trail mix. The labels peeled off easily too.

The Autumn Damask and the Elegant Fronds Background Stamps were perfect for the pumpkins. I used the Shabby Chic Autumn Leaves to make leaves for the pumpkin boxes. I stamped the background stamps twice side-by-side. After stamping I cut the orange paper leaving about 1/4" inch at the top and bottom and 1/2" to one end. I used clear tape to tape the paper to the canister. I practiced a few times before securing it with hot glue. The canister tapers a bit. I had to work it so it didn't extend over the edge. I also cut a small piece to glue to the lid.

Pumpkins grow on beautiful vines. I used a brown pipe cleaner threaded through the lid and secured with a button for the vine. After I threaded both ends through the lid I curled the pipe cleaner over a pencil. (Looking aback at my photos I should probably add a piece of paper to cover the lovely hot glue shining through the thin plastic.)

The sentiment from the Shabby Chic Autumn Leaves was perfect. I stamped the leaves on printed paper and added a bit of distress. All the paper was from my paper stash. I have been collecting paper for years. This green plaid paper is from an old DCWV "The Guys Stack". I bent the leaves to give them a bit of shape and then used hot glue to add them to the pumpkin box.

Added Antique Autumn Tags One, buttons, die cut foliage from the Samantha Walker Spellbinder Die Templates Botanical Swirls and Accents, and twine for a bit of extra embellishment. I used the Antique Tag Dies to die cut the Antique Autumn Tag. My youngest son said that they ended up a bit girlie. Down deep I know Daniel will probably just toss this after he enjoys the goodies. That is ok. My mission was just to let him know that I am missing him.

Now you know my secret! It is going to be a long 9 months without Daniel. I would love to hear your clever gift ideas for me to make for my homesick son!

Grace & Peace,

Amy