DIY Kelly Box Handbag: A Stunning & Sturdy Gift Card Holder

Updated at: 22/05/2025

Tired of flimsy gift card holders that crumple and tear? Craving a unique and stylish way to present your next gift? Then prepare to be captivated by the DIY Kelly Box Handbag – a surprisingly simple yet stunning project that transforms ordinary cardboard into a luxurious-looking gift card holder. This adorable miniature handbag, inspired by the iconic Hermès Kelly bag, offers a delightful blend of elegance and practicality, making it a perfect present in itself or a sophisticated container for your thoughtful gift.

The Kelly Box Handbag is surprisingly easy to construct, even for beginners, requiring only basic crafting supplies and a little patience. Its sturdy design ensures your gift card stays protected and adds a touch of sophisticated flair. Ready to create your own miniature masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below and transform a simple piece of cardboard into a treasured keepsake.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • 12x12 cardstock
  • bone folder
  • glue
  • scissors
  • ruler
  • decorative papers
  • straps
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use sharp, strong scissors or a rotary cutter for precise cuts. Blunt tools can lead to uneven edges and fabric damage.
  • Ensure your interfacing is the correct weight for your chosen fabric. Too light, and the bag will lack structure; too heavy, and it will be difficult to sew and may distort.
  • Pay close attention to the seam allowances throughout the project. Inaccurate seam allowances will result in a poorly fitting and unprofessional-looking Kelly Box.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cardstock

    • Score your 12x12 cardstock at 3, 5, 7, and 9 inches.
    • Fold and burnish all score lines.
    • Perform the unique John B. Crops-inspired fold to create clean edges. Fold the paper in half, then bring the scored edges together to create a precise, clean crease.
    Perform the unique John B. Crops-inspired fold to create clean edges. Fold the paper in half, then bring the scored edges together to create a precise, clean crease.Perform the unique John B. Crops-inspired fold to create clean edges. Fold the paper in half, then bring the scored edges together to create a precise, clean crease.Perform the unique John B. Crops-inspired fold to create clean edges. Fold the paper in half, then bring the scored edges together to create a precise, clean crease.
    Prepare the Cardstock

  2. Assemble the Box

    • Crease the inside of the bag to shape it.
    • Glue the side flaps to close the box structure.
    • Fold all sides and flatten. Bring the top edges up and adhere them with glue and a bone folder.
    Fold all sides and flatten. Bring the top edges up and adhere them with glue and a bone folder.Fold all sides and flatten. Bring the top edges up and adhere them with glue and a bone folder.Fold all sides and flatten. Bring the top edges up and adhere them with glue and a bone folder.
    Assemble the Box

  3. Add the Straps

    • Add the straps by placing them between the layers of the bag and securing them with glue.
    Add the straps by placing them between the layers of the bag and securing them with glue.
    Add the Straps

  4. Decorate the Exterior

    • Layer decorative papers to enhance the handbag's appearance. Glue these layers in place.
    Layer decorative papers to enhance the handbag's appearance. Glue these layers in place.
    Decorate the Exterior

  5. Create the Gift Card Holder

    • Create a gift card holder by scoring and folding a 3.25 x 3 inch piece of paper, then adding decorative layers inside.
    Create a gift card holder by scoring and folding a 3.25 x 3 inch piece of paper, then adding decorative layers inside.
    Create the Gift Card Holder

  6. Attach the Gift Card Holder & Finish

    • Attach the gift card holder to the inside of the bag.
    • Finish lining the inside of the bag for a clean finish.
    Finish lining the inside of the bag for a clean finish.Finish lining the inside of the bag for a clean finish.
    Attach the Gift Card Holder & Finish

Read more: Easy Origami Paper Box Tutorial: Step-by-Step Guide

Tips

  • Use a bone folder to create sharp, crisp creases.
  • The John B. Crops fold ensures clean edges, avoiding raw edges that would result from cutting and joining.
  • Adding straps between layers makes them more secure and prevents them from being easily pulled out.
  • Use multiple layers of decorative paper for a luxurious look and added durability.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Glue Application

Reason: Uneven glue distribution leads to a wobbly or lopsided finished product.
Solution: Ensure even glue coverage on all edges before adhering the fabric to the cardboard.

2. Cutting Cardboard Too Small

Reason: Cutting the cardboard base too small results in the fabric not having enough to wrap around properly, creating gaps or a messy finish.
Solution: Add a few extra millimeters to your cardboard measurements to account for fabric overlap and ensure a neat fold.

3. Incorrect Fabric Choice

Reason: Using too-thin or flimsy fabric makes the handbag flimsy and easily damaged.
Solution: Choose a sturdy fabric with some body, such as cotton canvas or heavy linen.

FAQs

What kind of cardboard is best for making a Kelly Box Handbag?
Medium-weight cardstock or chipboard works best. It needs to be sturdy enough to hold its shape but not so thick that it's difficult to fold and glue.