This Is The CUTEST DIY Project We’ve Ever Seen!

I think we can all agree that babies grow up WAY too fast (or maybe not fast enough)! And, as a parent, you probably want a way to preserve all the memories of this special time in your little one’s life. You’ll just love this adorable shadow box idea that will help you remember your kiddos first year- right down to their shoes!

To get started, you’ll need to gather your supplies. A quick trip to Michael’s or Hobby Lobby can get you going, and if you search online for coupons, you can keep your costs low!

First, gather several pairs of your child’s shoes. Many parents suggest using three or four pairs. Be sure to choose pairs from different stages in your child’s life- birth, 6 months, and one year could be great!

Then, head to the craft store and pick out a shadow box. Depending on how many pairs of shoes you plan to use, you may need a pretty big box! Make sure the shadow box is deep enough to hold all the shoes without them pressing against the glass lid.

After choosing a shadow box, select a sheet of decorative scrapbook paper to create a beautiful backdrop for your child’s shoes. There are plenty of adorable styles that include baby bottles, pacifiers, and even baby shoes. All you have to do is decide!

Next, make sure you have plenty of hot glue sticks (and a hot glue gun), tape, and markers. Feel free to also select decorative stickers, stencils, or glitter pens. Remember- this is your creation and it can take whatever form you want it to!

When you get your craft supplies back to your house, set up a workspace where you can design your masterpiece! Many people find it helpful to lay down newspaper to protect your table and to have a small basin of water nearby in case they accidentally burn themselves with the hot glue. A little bit of prep work can save you lots of time in the long run.

To create your shadow box shoe holder, glue the scrapbook paper down into the inside of the box. Then, glue the shoes down in a sequential pattern. Finally, decorate the paper however you wish. You could put your baby’s name, birthday, or photograph down. Or, you can draw designs on the paper and allow your child to color them if (if they’re old enough). No matter how you choose to do it, you’re sure to create something special!

This shadow box really will be a family heirloom that you can hold on for years to come. Maybe it can become a bit of a family tradition- each child gets a shoe box! Perhaps your kids will even want to make one for their own child one day.

A little bit of love and effort will go a long way when it comes to preserving those special family memories. With this commemorative shoe box, you can hold on to the happy moments for years to come!