On any given day, and especially in today’s environment, we may see or hear something that scares or hurts us. Sometimes friends or family can say something that make us feel sad. We tend to hold on to these negative feelings throughout the day, only making us feel worse as the day goes on. What if we could just hold onto our positive thoughts and feelings and dispose of the negative ones? Feelings Boxes are designed as a vessel to put those negative feelings into. You can write down your negative feelings on slips of paper and place them into the box. At the end of the day or week, you will throw out these feelings from the box, cleansing your mind of negative thoughts.
This lesson focuses on creating a Feelings Box to put your negative feelings into. We have altered the ideas here in this blog from the original lesson plan so you can create a box at home with materials you have easy access to.
First, you need to locate a box that can be embellished. The box should be 3 inches square or larger. Look for a box with a lid or hinged lid. Consider using a jewelry box, cigar box, or even a shoe box. Next, gather papers. Consider using tissue and wrapping papers, newsprint, magazine pages, and construction paper. You will also need scissors, glue, and any other items you may have like a hole punch or crimper. For embellishment, look for items that represent you such as charms, sequins, buttons, and memorabilia like ticket stubs or travel brochures. You can also create self-designed items.
The paper can be enhanced with crayons, markers, or paint. These products will allow you to add texture and depth to your papers. If you look at the boxes shown above, you will see that the papers have designs and patterns on them, making them more interesting in appearance. In selecting papers, consider designing around a theme, hobby, or favorite moment. Note the boxes featured focus on fishing, flowers, and abstract design.
Once papers have been enhanced, choose the ones that will help you complete your design. Use regular white school glue to adhere your papers and embellishments. A flat brush will help you evenly spread the glue onto the paper, making it easier to adhere to the box surface. Pay special attention to the box lid, making it your focal point. You can also glue tissue or colored papers inside the box to complete its design.
Cut strips of paper. Place the strips and a pen near the box so you can add your bad feelings to the box when needed. Determine how often you want to rid yourself and the box of your bad feelings.
Feelings Box Art Project Objectives
Students will explore different types of boxes and their uses.
Students will create designs that reflect their personality, making it truly their own creation and representative of themselves.
Students will have an opportunity to express their negative feelings and then release them.
View the Lesson Plan: Feelings Box
Tips for the Feelings Box
Many cultures have devised ways to release negative feelings and worries. One well-known example is Guatemalan Worry Dolls. Research other cultures to find more examples.
Make sure that your papers are dry and flat before gluing to the box.
If you want the box to have a sheen, Mod Podge or a mix of glue and water can be used. Make sure that you are not putting this onto tempera paint as it will run.
More Box Art Lesson Plans & Ideas
Want to try something else? Be sure to check out these other art lesson plans and view our Art Lesson Plan collection for even more.
Share Your At-Home Students’ Artwork and Enter for a Chance to Win $250!
While we engage in at-home learning, we want to celebrate the wonderful pieces students have created! We are looking for all at-home student artists and giving them an opportunity to shine! Submit their artwork to be considered for our next featured at-home student artist and a chance to win a merchandise certificate worth $250 for the student and the teacher who inspired them. Original artwork from students of all grade levels is eligible and the online submission process is simple. Visit our Student Art page for details.
Mary Reilly
After 24 years as a college admissions director, Mary crossed over to provide the materials for art education as a member of Sax, first as manager of Inside Sales, then as National Sales Manager. Mary has overseen a team of 15 art consultants. In 2000 Mary and her team created Sax Lesson Plan Book partnerships with prominent art supplies vendors. Meanwhile, she has refined her own artful style of presentation at various national, state and local conferences.
Nadine Dresbach
For Nadine, art education has been her life’s work, including an Ohio teaching license, 5 years teaching elementary art, and 19 years in higher education (teacher prep). She has served Sax for 25 years as a Category Account Manager, Art Consultant, and Subject Matter Expert. In the latter capacity, Nadine has presented at various national, state, and local conferences.
