by: Monique Hawkins

Creating carousel music boxes, ballerina music boxes, wooden keepsake boxes, musical jewelry boxes, and other types of music boxes is a relaxing and creative activity. Here a few general directions for those who are ready to begin or are in the process of creating their own music box.

Antiquing

When antiquing the flat surface of a music box, use an old paintbrush or a clean rag. Brush in the same direction and cover as much of the music box as desired. Make sure the surface thoroughly dries and do not go back over areas one the drying process begins.

If antiquing a textured surface, an old paintbrush works well. Be sure that the antiquing gel covers all the surface and work on small sections at a time; allow to dry.

Dry Brushing

Dry brushing causes a carousel music box, ballerina music box, and other types of music boxes to look as if they have more depth. A stiff, round paintbrush, flat brush, or stenciling brush works well. Leave a little bit of paint on the brush and then lightly brush the music box in the same direction.

With dry brushing, it is essential to make sure there is no water in the brush. If using different colors, wipe the brush on a paper towel and do not wash it.

Painting

When it comes to painting a wooden keepsake box, musical jewelry box, or any music box, sanding, sealing, and making sure the wood is dust and lint free assists in wood preparation.

A flat paintbrush or sponge brush can be used to apply a nice smooth coat of acrylic paint. This should be allowed to dry before a second coat of paint is added. For a very smooth surface, three coats of acrylic paint should be used. Steel wool can also be used to sand between the coats if necessary.

Preparing Music Boxes

Chipboard boxes come in a variety of sizes and shape sand are not expensive. Since they are not sturdy, strengthening is needed. This can be done by placing a bead of hot glue around the inside bottom of the box; make sure the glue hardens.

Next, apply a layer of tacky glue to the insides of the box using a paintbrush. Allow to dry.

Staining

Wood stains come in a wide variety of colors. Always follow the manufacturers directions. Stains, of course, will stain differently. The wood grain will determine how much stain will be absorbed. Leave the stain on for 1-2 minutes and then wipe for light stain or leave on for 5-10 minutes for a dark look.

Creating wooden keepsake boxes, carousel music boxes, ballerina music boxes, musical jewelry boxes, and other types of musical boxes is a fun and relaxing hobby. Antiquing, dry brushing, painting, chipboard boxes, and staining are just a few of the many things that can be done to create a music box to last a lifetime.

Copyright 2006 Monique Hawkins