Two cardboard boxes from the garage became the framework for our home-made puppet theater.
I used a knife to cut out the opening on one side of the top box, and then taped up one of the flaps in back. I think the photos do a better job of explaining it than I can.
With plastic trash bags for smocks, I put my young artist (and her friend!) to work painting the boxes. They had it done in no time!
Then we got out some craft stuff: papers, stamps, scissors, and glue.
I made a clock they could “set” to the time of the show.
My daughter drew a sun and moon and stars, cut them out, and put them around the clock.
I had glued sheet music all over the boxes by this time, so we added the clock display. My daughter also added a sign for tickets next to a slot in the box. The little box toward the top is for candy.
“After people buy their tickets they get to choose a piece of candy from the box,” she explained.
Seemed simple enough, but then she made tickets with special codes on the back so she could pick a “winning ticket” and give away a surprise treat.
I took a paint brush and gave it a quick coat of antiquing medium, heavy around the edges.
We also added some chipboard letters to spell out ‘SHOWTIME!” and a lot of gold glittery chip-board swirls.
We also cut a door in the back of the theater for storing puppets and props in.
And there’s a tiny bird that decided to perch atop our theater. She has a great view of the stage.
My kids have had a blast with this little theater made of cardboard. They spend hours selling each other tickets, filling the box with treats, and making puppets for different stories. It’s so much fun! I’m glad I get to play, too!
Thanks for stopping by,
Scarlett
I am so impressed!! Knox is always on my mind, prayers…kisses…hugs!! Love you all so much, Aunt Mel.
I love the magic you have created with your children; so much creative is fed through this type of medium! It is and looks wonderful~ I wish I could send some magic to Knox~ Sending you hope and prayers for him, you and your family~xXx
Dear Scarlett .. just wonderful, especially as you must be thinking of another while playing with your other and her friend … I’m thinking of you and hope Knox will remain strong … many blessings and peaceful, quiet, loving times .. with a big hugs and love – Hilary
Wow! You did all this by yourselves? Great job! 🙂 Best wishes for your Knox. And to answer your question, I trade all my ATC’s at ATCs for All forum. I’m a little addicted with them right now. 🙂
@Melanie –Thanks so much Aunt Melanie, it’s been really fun making this with them! Talk to you soon!
@Ella –It is magical isn’t it? Doing creative stuff with kids, I mean. It is also very good at distracting them for a bit while I tend to Knox. Thanks so much for your prayers, have a blessed weekend.
@Hilary –You said it perfectly, Hilary. Peaceful, quiet, loving times…that’s my goal. I’m thankful for every day. Blessings to you and your mother and thank you so much for your kind words.
@NatashaMay –Thanks!! Yeah, I’m a little addicted, too!! Our local scrapbook store started having swaps once a month so I joined that, too!! Glad to meet another ATC-er! 🙂
Hi Scarlett .. hope you have a few and many more of those times .. with thoughts ..Hilary
This is amazing! when we make cardboard box cars we use poster paint!!! I’m so impressed with you making *art* with your kids! I’ll be rembering Knox in my prayers this weekend. I hope he’s eating better again soon.
Ruth
I love this!! What a great idea Scarlett!! The kids will have hours and hours of fun 🙂
xo
Kay
This is so awesome! This is the most elaborate puppet theater I’ve ever seen. It’s just beautiful! I’m sure you and kids will have loads of fun putting on and watching shows. All the best for you and your family! ~Sophia
@Ruth –Thanks so much! I appreciate it, and we use poster paint, too. 🙂 Thank you for thinking and praying for my little Knoxy, as well. I love your new blog, thanks for visiting! Have a great weekend.
@Kay Ellen — Thanks! It’s been great entertainment in this horrible heat wave we’re having!
@just4crafters -You are very kind, we had a lot of fun! It was definitely cheaper than buying one, too. Thanks for stopping by!
Hi Scarlett, You are so talented, I’m always amazed by all of your creations! Love and Light to you and your family. xo
Hi Scarlett,
I wish I could see your beautiful puppet theater in person! Your children will cherish it, it is so beautiful! We pray for Knox everyday and for all of you. We will continue to do so.
@Julie -I appreciate your kind words so much! Thanks for stopping by!
@Jean –Thanks, the kids have really enjoyed it! I can’t tell you how much it means to me that you are praying for Knox. Thank you so much. <3
This is absolutely precious. I am in love with it!