Craft a Beautiful Ballerina Trinket Box with Decoupage & Paint

Have you ever wanted to create a keepsake box that looks like a treasured antique? One that holds special memories while also being a stunning piece of décor? Today, we’re diving into a beautiful ballerina trinket box tutorial—brought to you by our talented affiliate Donna from Mason Creations etc. She’s showing us how to transform a simple wooden box into a vintage-inspired masterpiece using decoupage, crackle finishes, and elegant embellishments.

Watch the full tutorial below and follow the step-by-step instructions to create your own magical box!

Step 1: Prepping the Wooden Box

Before starting, remove all hardware and the glass window from the lid. Lightly sand the entire surface and wipe away any dust. This step ensures a smooth painting and decoupage application.

Paint the entire box with Dixie Belle Chalk Paint in Cotton, a crisp white shade that will make your decoupage images pop. Allow the paint to dry completely.

Step 2: Decoupaging the Ballerina Design

To feature a stunning ballerina image under the glass, carefully tear your rice paper using a water brush for a natural, feathered edge. This technique helps blend the image seamlessly.

Apply a thin layer of Polyvine Decorators Varnish to the backboard where the image will sit. Place the rice paper gently and smooth it out, working from top to bottom. Let it dry for a couple of hours.

Once dry, use sandpaper to remove any overhanging edges for a clean finish.

Step 3: Decorating the Box Exterior

To complement the vintage theme, paint the top half of the box and lid with Dixie Belle Chalk Paint in Drop Cloth. The bottom half will be decoupaged with music sheet rice paper, adhering it with Polyvine Decorators Varnish.

Once dry, sand off the excess paper for crisp edges.

Step 4: Adding a Crackle Finish

To achieve an aged, vintage look, apply Pentart Fineline Crackle Varnish in two steps:

1. Component #1 – Brush it on and let it dry until clear (about an hour).
2. Component #2 – Apply an even coat and let it dry completely.

Once cracks appear, rub Pentart Antique Paste into them with a soft cloth to enhance the texture.

Seal the crackle finish with Pentart Solvent-Based Varnish in Glossy Finish, ensuring a long-lasting, porcelain-like shine.

Step 5: Creating Embellishments

Using Casting Resin, mix equal parts A & B, then pour into silicone molds to create delicate ballet shoes, a ballerina figure, and a heart.

Once cured, paint them with Pentart Gold Paint and enhance the details with FolkArt Antiquing Medium. Seal with Polyvine Heavy Duty Wood Varnish (Satin Finish) for durability.

Attach embellishments with a strong fixative such as E6000 Glue for a secure hold.

Step 6: Adding Luxe Details

Enhance the elegance of the box with:

• Redesign Decor Wax in Eternal – Rubbing it on edges and hardware to give a rich gold finish.
• Bronze Ball Chain – Glued around the lid and bottom for a refined touch.
• Gold Metallic Trim – Antiqued with FolkArt Antiquing Medium, then glued where the paint and decoupage meet.

Step 7: Lining the Box with Satin

For a luxurious interior, cut cardboard to fit the inside of the box. Glue a layer of batting on top, followed by pink satin fabric. Secure it inside the box and finish with gold cording along the edges.

Step 8: Final Assembly

Reattach the hardware and glass. Use Redesign Decor Wax on silver hinges and clasps to match the gold accents.

For an extra touch, glue a ballerina embellishment on the glass and a tiny key charm to a bow, attaching it above the clasp.

Enjoy Your Beautiful Keepsake!

This elegant ballerina trinket box makes a perfect gift or a stunning keepsake for yourself. Every detail—from the crackled finish to the delicate embellishments—adds charm and character to this vintage-inspired piece.

A huge thank you to Donna at Mason Creations etc. for sharing her talent with us! Be sure to check out her other inspiring tutorials.

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Happy crafting! 🎨✨