As you all know by now, I’m participating in Martha Stewart’s “12 Months of Martha” this year. Martha Stewart Living sends me and a handful of other bloggers the latest tools and products from the Martha Stewart Crafts line. We then use those tools to create a new project every month. See what we’re all up to with the hashtag #12monthsofmartha.

This month they sent over the new gift box maker and I LOVE IT. Do you know how many times I’ve needed a random little box for something? Now I can whip one up in seconds. Game changer. There are three sizes in one tool which is also super genius. Bravo MSL, bravo.

I have found that this tool works best with thicker paper and light weight cardboard. Luckily, I always keep a stash of heavier weight printer paper on hand. That way I can print the patterns of my choice without having to go out and buy paper. I told you this is a game changer.

You can find adorable patterns on stock image sites like I did, or you can create your own, and simply print them out on your heavy weight printer paper. The small and medium box templates work perfectly fine with standard letter sized paper.

This tool is really simple to use. You just trace with the stylus to create the fold lines.

Then use the blade to cut out the shape.

Fold it on the scored lines and use double stick tape or glue to seal the edge.

What you end up with are custom DIY pillow boxes that cost pennies to make.

To finish the boxes I used pieces of palm leaves as ribbon and I made paper flowers with left over tissue paper.

These pillow boxes can also be used for things other than gifts. I’m thinking treats, party favors, storage, and more!