As simple as 2-4-6-8!

Maybe you've heard of the most simple formula to create a little container out of one sheet of cardstock? If you haven't ever used the 2-4-6-8 method, I'd like to share it with you today. It's quick and easy, simple to mass produce and fun to make all your own with stamping and embellishments!

To start, cut a piece of cardstock to 6" x 8 1/2". Save the section you trim off because you can use that for your tag or other additions. I used Basis Natural for this entire project. It's on sale this month and there are so many colors to choose from.

I actually dry embossed my cardstock to add some texture. You can do this before or after you score your lines. I used a wood texture embossing folder; lining it up on one of the score lines so I could run it through twice to cover the entire surface.

Once your cardstock is trimmed to size, score along the long side at 2", 4", 6" and 8". Then on the short side, score at 2".  Here's a simple diagram that may help.

The dotted lines represent score lines, the solid lines represent cuts. You'll then need to cut the short ends of each score, along with cutting out the little rectangle that's excess. Keep the skinny scored area so you can assemble the box.

Take a look at the scored and cut cardstock, and take a look at where I placed the Scor Tape so I can put it all together.

It's easy to then create a rectangular "tube", using the flap with adhesive to hold it all together. I fold all the bottom flaps on top of each other to create a sturdy bottom. And bingo... it's as easy as that.

I gently guided the sides in and hole punched the top to give me a way to keep it closed with some rustic twine.

Using the leftover cardstock, I die cut a couple of shapes and then ink blended on some color to achieve the masculine look I was going for. The Basis cardstock took the blended Distress inks really nicely!

I thought a little message on the bottom of the tag would finish this off nicely. So I used my trusty MISTI to ensure my stamping was straight... I'm not really skilled at doing that on my own :)

And that's all there is to it. I learned this technique many years ago when I first started stamping, and it seems to be one I return to often. When I want to dress up a little gift or something special to stuff a little cash in, this seems to be my "go-to". It's easy to mass produce, so I think it would be great for wedding, shower or party favors!

Thanks for stopping by, and take some time to get crafty today..... Amber