Want to give a gift that’s both thoughtful and practical? Instead of resorting to predictable gift cards, consider a Money Gift Box! This DIY Money Gift Box idea takes the concept of gifting cash to a whole new level of fun and creativity. By transforming an ordinary candy box into a treasure chest of bills and coins, you’re not just giving money; you’re giving an experience.
Open candy box revealing dollar bills and coins, creative money gift idea
If you’re looking for a memorable and engaging way to present a monetary gift, this easy DIY project is your answer. It’s a delightful mix of a gag gift and genuine usefulness, because who wouldn’t appreciate a little extra cash?
The inspiration for this unique money gift box comes from Aunt Cass, a woman known for her creativity and practicality. She understood the art of making special occasions memorable with gifts that were both fun and truly useful. Instead of generic presents, she opted for thoughtful gestures that had real value.
Back when the author was focused on debt repayment, Aunt Cass sent a seemingly ordinary box of chocolates from a local sweet shop. However, upon opening it, the delightful surprise wasn’t chocolate, but a cleverly disguised money gift box! This innovative approach is the perfect alternative to impersonal gift cards that often end up forgotten or spent on impulse buys.
Why Choose a Chocolate Money Box? It’s More Fun Than a Regular Card!
It’s an absolute joy! Imagine the initial anticipation of receiving a box of chocolates, quickly followed by the burst of surprise and delight upon discovering it’s actually filled with money! This money gift box is guaranteed to bring a much bigger smile than a simple check or a standard gift card ever could. It transforms the act of giving money into an exciting and memorable moment.
It’s a wonderfully simple DIY project. You don’t need to be a craft expert to create this charming gift. The supply list is short and sweet, and the process is straightforward, making it accessible for anyone to create.
It’s budget-flexible. Whether you want to give a little or a lot, this money gift box adapts to your budget. By varying the denominations of coins and bills, you can customize the gift to perfectly match what you intend to spend.
The perfect bon voyage present. If you know someone embarking on an adventure abroad, a money gift box filled with foreign currency is an incredibly thoughtful and practical gift. It’s ideal for missionaries, exchange students, families adopting children from overseas, or anyone with wanderlust.
It’s educational for children. Kids will be fascinated by the different coins and bills, especially if you include currency from other countries or unique denominations. It’s a fun way to introduce them to the concept of money and different currencies. As mentioned, the author’s family tradition of gifting two-dollar bills every year highlights how even unusual US currency can be a delightful surprise. (And yes, $2 bills are indeed real US currency.)
Supplies You’ll Need to Create Your Money Gift Box
Here’s everything you need to assemble your own chocolate money box gift:
An Empty Candy Box or Cookie Tin: Repurpose an empty candy box or cookie tin. Choosing a brand that the recipient loves adds a personal touch. Consider the box size – a smaller box is easier and more economical to fill with money.
Also, be mindful of any food allergies the recipient might have. Ensure the box is thoroughly cleaned to prevent cross-contamination, especially if allergies are a concern. This thoughtful detail is always appreciated.
Paper Baking Liners: Mini muffin or candy-sized paper liners are perfect as they closely resemble those used in chocolate boxes. You can choose classic brown liners for a traditional look or opt for colorful ones to make the presentation more vibrant and festive.
Money: Get creative with your cash! Include a variety of denominations, and if possible, add some interesting or unique coins and bills. Two-dollar bills and dollar coins are always fun additions.
Think beyond the usual – pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters, half dollars, dollar coins, and bills of various denominations. Visit your bank to see what interesting currency options they have.
Consider the recipient’s needs and interests. For someone traveling abroad, including currency from their destination country is an extra special touch.
Adhesive: You’ll need glue, double-sided tape, or foam adhesive squares to secure the paper liners in the box and the money inside the liners.
Step-by-Step Guide to Assembling Your Chocolate Money Gift Box
Follow these simple steps to create your own delightful Chocolate Money Gift Box:
Securing paper liners into an empty candy box using tape for a DIY money gift box
Close-up of paper liners filled with rolled and taped currency for a money gift box
- Prepare the Box: Glue or tape the paper liners into each compartment of the empty candy box. This creates individual slots for your money.
- Prepare the Currency: Roll, fold, or stack the bills and coins to create visual variety and help them fit neatly into the liners. Get creative with how you present the different denominations.
- Insert the Money: Use adhesive squares or tape to secure the prepared currency inside the paper liners. This prevents the money from shifting around when the box is opened.
- Finishing Touches: Close the box and wrap it as you would any gift. You can use wrapping paper, ribbons, or a gift bag to enhance the surprise element.
This Chocolate Money Box gift is brimming with potential. It’s a perfect blend of creativity and practicality, making it a truly memorable and appreciated gift for any occasion.
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What Are Your Thoughts?
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Close-up of a chocolate money box surrounded by party decorations, festive money gift presentation
Chocolate Money Gift Box Tutorial: Quick Guide
Transform an ordinary chocolate box into an extraordinary money gift box with this simple tutorial. It’s a fun, inventive way to gift money that’s far more exciting than checks or gift cards.
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Equipment
- Scissors (only for trimming tape or adhesive squares)
Supplies
- 1 empty chocolate box
- Adhesive (glue, double-sided tape, or foam squares)
- Small paper candy liners
- Money (coins and bills in various denominations)
Instructions
- Glue or tape paper liners into the chocolate box compartments.
- Roll, fold, or stack currency for varied presentation.
- Adhere currency to the candy liners.
- Close the box and wrap as a gift.
Notes
Personalize your money box! Use different coin and bill denominations, vary liner colors, and choose the recipient’s favorite chocolate brand for the box.
Tried this project? Share your experience!
Originally published February 2, 2011. Updated for content and clarity. This is the original idea that has inspired many online!
