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How to make a memory box

Decorated memory boxes featuring painted base colours, patterns and lettering to store photos, tickets and keepsakes.
Pinterest predicts 2026 trend throwback kid writing on a blue background.

Overview

Create a D.I.Y. memory box inspired by the keepsake boxes many grew up with. Using a timber craft box as the base, this project can be styled for kids collecting treasures or adults storing photos and mementos. The decorating steps stay the same, with different style directions to suit the space.

Steps

1Choose and prepare the box

Use a timber craft box as the base for this project. These come ready to decorate, making it easy to get started straight away. If upcycling an older box instead, make sure the surface is clean and lightly sanded before painting. Protect your work surface with a drop sheet while working on this keepsake box.

Priming is optional for unfinished timber, but recommended if using light, pastel or bold colours for a more even finish. If decorating an older or previously painted box, apply a suitable primer first. Allow it to dry fully before adding colour.

A plain wooden craft box placed on a work surface, ready to be decorated and transformed into a personalised memory box

2Choose your decorating style

This project is less about rules and more about personal style. The same timber base can be finished in countless ways depending on the space.

For a bold, playful look, lean into retro colour blocking or 90s-inspired tones. Paint the lid and base in contrasting shades, add stripes or simple graphic shapes, or create a scalloped edge detail around the lid. Wooden letters can spell out initials, a favourite word or a meaningful date in a contrasting colour.

If a more refined finish suits the space, stick to different shades from the same colour family. A tonal palette with subtle lettering or a painted border detail keeps the box feeling modern and understated. Keeping extra decoration minimal helps it sit comfortably on open shelving or a bedside table.

For something softer, choose neutral tones and introduce texture through lightly sanded edges or layered paint effects. Simple lettering, small symbols or a minimalist label-style detail on the front can personalise the keepsake box without overwhelming it.

A collection of decorated memory boxes shows how painting the base colour creates the foundation for creative DIY memory box designs

3Paint the base colour

Choose a base colour that suits the look being created. Apply even coats to the lid and sides using a paint brush or small roller, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next. The inside can be left natural timber for contrast or painted to match.
A person is applying a white base coat to a wooden craft box using a paint brush as part of creating a customised DIY memory box.

4Add lettering and decorative elements

Paint wooden letters or decorative shapes separately and allow them to dry fully before attaching them with a suitable adhesive. Position elements evenly on the lid and press firmly in place. Smaller details can be added with paint pens or a fine brush.
A person is using a stencil and paintbrush to apply colour and lettering while decorating a personalised DIY memory box.

5Apply sealant

Once all paint and decorative elements are fully dry, apply a clear protective sealer to the exterior to help protect the surface. Allow it to cure completely before placing items inside. Once finished, place photos, letters, cards and small keepsakes inside the memory keepsake box.
A person is applying a clear sealant with a brush over a painted wooden memory box to protect the design and give it a smooth, durable finish

6Enjoyed creating this D.I.Y. memory box?

Take a look at our guide to creating an old-school games storage box for another creative storage idea.
Health & Safety

Please make sure you use all equipment appropriately and safely when following the advice in these D.I.Y. videos. You need to be familiar with how to use equipment safely and follow the instructions that came with the equipment. If you are unsure, you may feel it is safest to consult an expert, such as the manufacturer or an expert Bunnings Team Member.

Grave health hazards are linked to asbestos, which may be in homes built up to 1990. Health hazards may result from exposure to lead-based paints in older materials and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer.