We’ve all heard that it’s not quantity, but quality that matters. I find this very apropos when it comes to Purim. With the variety and dimensions of mishloach manot expanding every year, it’s nice to step back and appreciate the mitzvah in a fresh and minimalist way. Not only are these gift boxes beautiful and unique, but they also leave a lasting impression, as they can be reused anywhere in the home.
Outside The Box:
Acrylic boxes (can be found in many craft stores, as well as the Container Store)
Decorative knobs, gems, crystals, shells etc.
E6000 glue (do not substitute)
Gold paint (optional)
- Paint the base of your object for a “dipped” look.
- Place the desired amount of E6000 glue into a small plastic bag. Push the glue towards the corner of the bag like you would with a pastry bag. Snip off a small tip. This will allow you to have more control over the placement of the glue.
- If using a knob, spread the glue over the top and carefully position it on the lid of the box. If using an object with an uneven bottom, allow the glue to dry a bit before pressing the lid onto the decoration. Hold in place for a couple of seconds, and then place the decoration (lid side up) into a bed of rice or lentils. This will keep your item suspended, allowing the lid to dry in place.
The glue should dry in a couple of hours, and be fully cured in 24 hours.
Spring Medley Box
Individually wrapped chocolates (I used Godiva)
Sandwich cookies (I used Trader Joe’s Maple Leaf Cookies)
Chocolate covered dried fruit
To Assemble:
Carefully arrange the chocolates on the bottom of the box, tucking in the wrappers to keep the look neat.
Next, position the sandwich cookies so that they are flush with the box at both ends. If you’re having trouble fitting in the stack, thin out one or more of the cookies by squeezing them gently and allowing the cream to spread.
Pour in the chocolate fruits, making sure to fill any holes with smaller pieces.
Lovely Layers Box
Assorted nuts, fruits and seeds like:
Mango
Guava
Raw pineapple
Papaya
Bananas
Plain or candied pecans
Candied peanuts
Shelled or spiced sunflower seeds
To Assemble:
Start with a layer of seeds to ensure that the base of the box is completely filled.
Alternate fruits, nuts and seeds until full, keeping in mind the following: Place a layer of flat fruits such as dried mango or guava under layers of small seeds or nuts to keep them from mixing with the other ingredients.
For bulkier fruits such as pineapples, peaches or pears, cut away small sections to make straighter edges that will line up side by side.
Experiment with the order and placement of your ingredients. You will discover surprising combinations that are not noticeable when the supplies are loose.
Save the prettiest or most interesting item for the topmost layer.
Sea Breeze Box
Sea glass candy (See recipe below)
Raw brown sugar
Pearly white gumballs
Chocolate shells and seahorses
Dried Kiwi
To Assemble:
Pour a layer of “sand” (raw brown sugar) on the bottom of the box.
Follow with pearl gumballs. This will help secure the sea glass candy and keep it in place.
Sort through your sea glass candy, selecting pieces of similar shapes and sizes. Place the pieces along the sides of the box, pushing slightly into the sugar to provide more support.