4/25/13 Splitcoaststampers - Tutorials

www.splitcoaststampers.com/resources/tutorials/shadowbox/#?printable=true 1/5
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Shadow Box
by Colleen Schaan

Learn how to fill a shadow box with mementos and photos of your favorite themes.
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Shadow Box (Daily Window Design Cube
used here)
Photos of favorite memories
Favorite quotes or sayings about theme
Knick-knacks or doo dads that represent
theme
Items or collage materials that represent
theme
Strong adhesive
6WHSE\6WHS
Step 1
Begin by choosing a theme that's important to
you or evokes strong memories.
Collect supplies. It's better to have too many
items to choose from than too little to fill your
shadowbox. (Think 3D - so pick objects with
depth.)
4/25/13 Splitcoaststampers - Tutorials
www.splitcoaststampers.com/resources/tutorials/shadowbox/#?printable=true 2/5
Step 2
Build from the background forward. Create a
backdrop for your shadowbox by including a
photo, artwork or a collage.
Step 3
Include text. Whether it is stamped on, printed
on or written on, include text that relates to the
theme.
Hint:
You can even write a journal entry and include
it in your shadowbox by rolling it or folding it
and attaching it so it can be removed and read.
Make sure elements coordinate. Here some
bright yellow flowers were colored to match the
pale yellow-pink of the real flower petals that
are used.
Step 4
4/25/13 Splitcoaststampers - Tutorials
www.splitcoaststampers.com/resources/tutorials/shadowbox/#?printable=true 3/5
Leave room to place actual objects into the
shadowbox in front of the photo and text
layers.
Step 5
Continue to build the layers forward using foam
tape, wooden blocks, or plastic straw pieces to
pop each item off of the layer behind it.
Hint:
Hide the blocks or tape with strategically
placed elements.
Step 6
Attach any objects you want secure with a
strong adhesive. If you want items to be
movable, attach them with ribbons, brads or
wire. If you want something to be removable,
gently set it into the shadowbox, not attaching
it at all.
Step 7
4/25/13 Splitcoaststampers - Tutorials
www.splitcoaststampers.com/resources/tutorials/shadowbox/#?printable=true 4/5
Your shadow box is done.
Tips:
- Think outside the box and attach items to the
front, sides or top of the box. (Photo 6)
- Get creative - have a nice mix of flat items
(photos/artwork) and 3D objects (bottles,
books, miniatures).
- Keep perspective and style in mind. Not all
items need to be in scale, but make sure the
style of each item is similar - i.e., all elegant,
all whimsical, etc.
- Go for lots of layers!
Sample Themes:
Trips or vacations
Special occasions (wedding/birth/graduation)
Remembrance of someone special
Pets
Favorites
(color/places/outfits/sayings/books/movies)
All About YOU
9LGHR
Creating a Shadowbox (A Splitcoaststamers Tutor...
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