You can also make your own hinged wooden box if you prefer to start from scratch. [1] X Research source . Hinged wooden boxes are available at craft supply stores and online in a wide range of sizes and styles.

Painting the wood is only necessary if the box isn’t already finished and decorated. If you choose to recycle a box and you already like the way it looks, you don’t need to paint over it. You can technically use any type of paint that is approved for use with wood (or whichever material your box is made of). For wooden boxes, you can even use wood stain.

Using stencils to paint a pretty design onto the lid. Using spray adhesive and Mod Podge to attach a laser-printed photograph to the lid. Gluing a flat-backed cameo or cabochon to the center of the lid for something simple and classy.

Make sure that you check the dimensions of the music box mechanism before you purchase it to ensure that it will fit into the box you have chosen.

If you cannot see the holes through the paper template, use a small ruler to measure where they lie on the mechanism in comparison to each side. Mark dots on the template using those same measurements.

Make sure to position the mechanism off to one side of the box or in one of the back corners. However, if you use a small box just big enough to fit the mechanism, center the mechanism inside its base. When determining the best placement for the mechanism, make sure that the screw holes and keyhole will be clear of the feet on the bottom of the music box.

If you opted for a paper mache box or recycled tin, create the holes using an awl, rubber block, and hammer. Remove the paper template and clear away any shavings or other debris before continuing. Small particles of debris can easily work their way into the inner workings of the musical mechanism, and if that happens, the mechanism may stop playing. Make sure to check your music box mechanism’s instructions to determine what size screws to use.

After you fix these screws in place, ensure that the mechanism is secure at the base of the box without being held in place. Remember to check the music box mechanism’s instructions to determine what screw size to use.

Let the glue dry completely before continuing. Hot glue will dry within about 5 minutes while wood glue will need to sit for at least 8 hours.