For example, 8. 5 in × 11 in (22 cm × 28 cm) paper will make small boxes that are more suitable for children. If you want larger boxes, try printing on 9 in × 12 in (23 cm × 30 cm) sheets or even 11 in × 14 in (28 cm × 36 cm). Before hitting print, make sure that your printer can handle the paper size and weight of the cardstock. Select the correct print settings under preferences. Cardstock will be somewhere between 50-110 lb. For a unique touch, you could print the design on a different color of cardstock, such as light blue or pink.
Make sure to score the right side—the printed design side—so the paper will fold in the right direction.
Double-sided tape also works well for this step. When gluing or taping, make sure to align the edges carefully. You can bring the opposite side of the box down so that it is flush with the table’s surface to ensure you are aligning the two pieces properly.
You could also use a sheet of cardstock, either white or in the color of your choice.
Include four main panels side by side–these should be tall and rectangular, tapering slightly at the bottom. Along the edge of one of the outer panels, add a long tab to connect the sides together. Add a rectangle below one panel for the bottom. The sides of the square should be the lengths of the panels’ bottom edges. Along the sides of the bottom square, add tabs to attach the bottom to the panels you fold it together. A standard size for the panels is 4 × 3 × 8 in (10. 2 × 7. 6 × 20. 3 cm).
If you’re using cardboard, you should use a box cutter and a ruler. If you’re using posterboard, an X-acto knife with a ruler should be sharp enough to cut through the material. If you choose to use cardstock, scissors will be sufficient to cut out your design.
If the box is too tall, cut it down to the right size by trimming the top.
