Create a standing frame, hanging ornament or greeting card which is a re-usable container for candy, potpourri, small gift items, or pictures. A "door" on the back of the window panel makes it possible to insert your gift items, and for your friend to retrieve them without destroying the container.

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T E C H N I Q U E

1. Plan your project, inside and out. Make sure the box and the access door are big enough for your gift.

2. Cut a ½" thick piece of foam board the size of your card. Then cut this frame ½" from all edges. The interior box opening can be larger than the image you plan for its front. (See Figure 1)

3. On a separate piece of card stock, stamp and decorate the image you wish to use for the top layer (window.) Cut away the "window" opening, carefully staying inside the stamped outline.

4. Cut ½" strips of matching card stock and glue to inside and outside edges of the frame to cover the edges of the foam board or plan an extra ½" allowance on all four edges which will be wrapped downward like a gift. (See Figure 2)

5. Cut a piece of clear acetate slightly smaller than the foam board frame; attach to the frame with double stick tape. Glue or tape the stamped window over the acetate.

6. Stamp the background (which will be seen through the window) onto the front of a card. This scene can extend beyond the edges of your window. Turn this piece over, and cut a "door", ½" from the top and sides, extending halfway down the card. Score and fold back.

7. Cut or punch two "buttons" of card stock. Attach one just above the door and the other on the door, using mounting foam and glue. Anchor a piece of string under the button on the door. Wind the string around both buttons to lock it closed.

8. Glue the back piece onto the foam board frame. Insert your gift.

9. This frame can be mounted on the front of a card, on a tripod (tent) standing frame, punched to hang as an ornament, or used just as a box for a small gift item such as jewelry or candy.