BDJ BOX: How to Create a Multifunctional Kit from your BDJ BOX

I am new Subscriber for BDJ Box but so far, I was happy with the two boxes that I received.

Just last November 15, 2013, BDJ Box Editorial via Nicole Romero with the help of Beam Mariano of shopartwine.com showed a DIY tutorial on how to recycle your BDJ Boxes since they are quite sturdy and really functional.

Already some had the intention of recycling it, but only a few decided to actually refurbish it into something that would deviate it from the normal BDJ Box look.  I, myself, just let it be and use it as storagefor all the make-ups I acquired.

In this editorial post, Nicole challenged all subscribers to create their own kikay kits and/or functional boxes using the BDJ Boxes that we have acquired over time.  Being the crafty and creative (says my daughter :)) that I am, I took on the challenge.

I was supposed to do a multi-layered, side-swinged compartment type but due to lacking boxes (I only have 2 boxes as of now), I opted to do a stackable functional box instead.  I wanted to do a video tutorial, however, due to limited lighting and time, all I have are illustrations for now,  Just ask questions should you need clarification.

This box features a 3-layeredfunctional box with divisions and a complementing mirror.

To learn how I did this, please continue scrolling down :D

For the materials, most of them are recycled.  I don't throw away stuffs easily even if I could not use them thinking that they may have other uses aside from what they were intentionally made for :)SInce I am a crafter of some sort, I basically have most of the tools that i need :D .. if you don't have one, you can always improvise. All materials used were readily available at home and are just waiting to be used so I had no problem acquiring the materials I needed.

For this project, you would need the following:

BDJ Boxes. If you don't have one, you may use other boxes as well.

Old nail polishes.Will be used for painting.you may opt to use other coloring materials or paints, I just wanted to take my hands off these almost dried polishes :)

Cloth.For covering the box.  You could use wallpapers or giftwraps.  I just preferred cloth since it will add reinforcement to the box and will act as a binder too from accidental tears over time.  In this project, I used a black ECO bag.  If you were a previous follower then you would know that I literally have a LOT of Eco Bags that I acquired over time.  1 Large box holds these ECO bags.  They crumble over time when not in used so I decided to either give some away or put them into good use.  What I like about the fabric is that they don’t fray so I didn’t need to do some sewing on the edges.

Colored Cardboards.In this project, I used a black glossy paper bag. Same with the ECO bags, I also have a boxful of paper bags which I don’t throw if still deemed functional :D

Styro or any sturdy foam. You can get this from the box of a certain appliance that you bought or leftover materials from your artworks using storyboards.  Aside from these, you may use other materials such as wood, tubes or practically anything sturdy which can be used as a bridge later on.

Scissors , Cutter

Used illustration board or anything similar

Double Sided tape / Clear Tape

Glue stick / Glue Gun

Embellishment.Will depend on what you have and on what you intend to do with the design.

Old Compact mirror

Ribbons

Instructions:

We will first prepare the parts so that assembling later on will just be a breeze.

Step 1: 

Measure the boxes. You will use this information later on.  For the BDJ Box, approximate size (in cm) is 18 x 13 for the pink box and 19 x 14 x 4.5 for the cover.

Step 2:

Using the information above, Cut strips of solid foam or styro foam to be used as bridges or stoppers.  For the lower box, you would need  2 strips of approximately 19 x 3.5 x 1.5 in size while for the pink box, 2 pcs of 18 x 1 x 1 styro strips. Set the strips aside for later.

Note:  The sizes would vary if you are using another box.

Step 3:

Get 1 box cover and pull out the flap from the inside. To create a division, Fold the flap inwards depending on where or how big the division is.  Fold it again outwards with a length of about 3.5cm and fold again the remaining (if there is) inwards then let it stand.  This will serve as your first division.  Let us call this as Box 1 to avoid confusion later on :D.

Step 4:

Get the other box cover and pull the inner flap all the way out and fold it outwards towards the rim of the cover. This will be Box 2.

Note:  If the boxes you are using doesn’t have inner flaps, you can always improvise by gluing thin cardboards (from shirt packaging) making it seem as part of the box.

Step 5:

Using an illustration board (it doesn’t matter if it is used or not since this will be covered later on) cut out 2 pcs of 13.1cm x 13.3cm and a 13.1cm x 19.4cm rectangular board.The 13.1cm is the height of the board.

Step 6:

Get Box1 and cover the whole box with the black cloth.  You may omit the inner part of the box if desired.  Secure it firmly.  It is better to use a hot glue to ensure it wouldn’t fall off.

Step 7: Box 1 Assembly (1^st layer)

Get the 2 styro/foam strips of approximately 19 x 3.5 x 1.5 in size. Measure the width of the divisions and slice the strips into 2 so that when inserted in the box, the division is in between two foam strips.  You can opt to cover the strips first with the same cloth material just like what I did just to make it more presentable and neat :D

These side strips act as a stopper or bridge for the second box so it wouldn’t get pushed all the way down just like any other stackable containers.

Inside, I had a foam and a used black felt paper. I made some slits in between which act as a ring and earrings holder.  The narrower division is for watches, bracelets or necklaces.

Step 8: Pink Box 1 Assembly (2^ndlayer)

No need to do much on this one.  Just put it on top of the 1^st box and it will fit like a Lego :D  It wouldn’t go all the way down because of the bridge.  I just added a cut-out container from a Ferrero chocolate box :D … yum!  You may of course omit this and do your own divisions.  Just leave about 1cm from the lid for the stopper to be placed on the 3^rd layer.

Step 9: Pink Box 2 Assembly (3^rd layer)

For this box, you would require a stopper.  If you would notice, if you put this on top of the second layer, it will just fall off since they literally have the same dimension.  To prevent this, get the 2 pcs of 18 x 1 x 1 styro strips that you prepared earlier.  Flip the box so that the bottom part is facing you.  Glue the stips on the sides leaving about 0.2cm of space from the edge on both sides.  You may color this strips or cover them with art papers later on so that the foam won’t be that much visible.

Try stacking the 3^rd Box into the 2^nd Box making sure that the stoppers goes inside the 2^nd Box.  If you will notice, the 3^rd box is not going anywhere anywhere.  The principle is very simple and basic for stackable containers having the same dimensions (bottom part is always a little bit narrower)

Again, you may opt to do your own divisions.

Step 9: Box 2 Assembly (topmost cover).

I like the concept of padded footstalls :D So I got a used bubble pack and folded it until I achieve the desired thickness.  Better to use soft foams if you have one. But since I didn’t, I used bubble packs instead (which I got from Parcels I received occasionally).  Glue or attach this on the topmost outer cover.

Once done, Cover the whole box with the same Cloth you used on Box 1.  Ensure that the flap is not covered since this will be pulled out later on.

Pull out the flap.  If you want, you can paint or cover the inner part of the box.  In this case, I used s glossy black cardboard which I cut out from a paper bag.  I also covered the Flap from the inside since I didn’t want for the original color to show in order to maintain the color theme.

Once done, you will get this classy padded cover.

Step 10.

From Step 5, line up the cut boards having the largest in the middle making sure that all of them have the same height (13.1cm).  Leave at least a 0.2cm gap in between.  Using tape (I prefer electric tapes since they can withstand constant bending aside from the fact they are black), Tape the boards together.  Just ensure the 0.2cm gap in between.  It should look like one large rectangular board.  Once done, cover the entire board again with cloth.  (another option, cover one side with cloth and the other side with a black cardboard, it’s your choice).

You should be able to bend the board which is why there is a need to have a gap in between.

Step 11.  Functional Box Assemby

We are almost done.

Get Box 2 (cover) and glue the entire flap on the largest board section from the last step.  Just make sure that rim of the cover is barely touching the top most portion of the board.  This would allow the cover to be flipped back and forth.

Next, get Box 1 (first layer) and glue one of the longest sides to the bottom of the board making sure to cover the edge of the flap.  Secure it firmly.  Your assembly should initially look like this.

Step 12:

To make it really functional, I got two small boxes (I got this from a sachet product which came in a box where you can just flip the cover with the perforation).  I just painted the box with my almost dried polishes (finally…I got to throw away the containers..)

Glue each of the boxes on the outer sides of the board.  This will serve as holders for ballpens, brushes or liners.

Step 13: Lock

Get a ribbon and glue each end to each side of the flaps.

At this point, the functional box is as good as done.  Just layer the compartments and stack them together.  However, I added a few more stuffs to make it more presentable:

Decorations:

1.       To make it personal, I crafted a mini picture frame on the inside flaps of the side boards so when it opens, you have a nice view on your most treasured moments.

2.      From an old compact, I pulled out a mirror and glued it inside the top most cover.  If you are putting on make-ups, this will come in handy.

3.      Of course, I placed embellishments on some parts of the box.

That is about it guys.. The instructions may have come out long, but it is really easy to do.  All you need is a bit of imagination.  Create something that would fit your personality and what would make you happy.

FYI.. As usual…my daughter got dibs on this project..lol! She already declared it as hers…

 What do you think of my first DIY craft post.  Are you interested in seeing more?  Tell me your thoughts.  Comments and suggestions are always appreciated.

Till my next post guys.xoxo

BDJ Box : November '13 Blushing Beauty

This is somewhat a late unboxing post for my November BDJ Box due to recent project commitments and work loads.

Coming from my previous October hype when I got the Maybelline products, this is a new set that would defer from the previous theme of Expressing yourself.

This month's theme is all about Blushing Beauty.   Simplicity at its finest by making sure that your skin is clean and clear.

Now onto the unboxing:

ZA Perfect Solution Cleansing Foam

full size @ 3.5 oz

Regular Price: 345php

Made with Marine Collagen that encourages the skin's renewal process, and nature-derived plant seed extracts, this high performance anti-aging cleansing foam gives your skin a youthful resilliance and a silky glow.  A small amount is all you need for thoroughly cleansed skin!

This one, I will have to keep since I always keep a good facial wash at home and at work.

The Cream Factory Bath Cream

sample size @ 7.5fl oz

Regular Price: 699php @ 26fl oz

Made from real Goat's Milk from the Netherlands and 100% Active Botanical Extracts.  The Cream Factory Bath Creams will leave your skin feeling velvety smooth and fresh all night.  It's yummy delicious and fun, like dessert for the skin.  Use it like a normal cream soap using a sponge or a loofah.

I have been curious with this one since I saw it being posted on social medias. I really have a very dry skin and I wanted to see if this can remedy that.

Oil of Argan Oil

sampler size @ 10ml

Regular Price: 600php for 30ml size

This rare oil is extracted from the nuts of Argan Trees in Southwest Morocco.  Its blend of Omega-6, Vitamin E, and essential fatty acids makes it a potent moisturizer and antioxidant.  When used regularly, it restores the natural tightness of your skin , preventing signs of premature aging.
For face, apply on skin ailments like Eczema, Psoriasis, Rosacea, Skin Asthma and Acne.  For hair, may be used as a leave-on treatment. For the body, maybe applied to stretch marks, sunburns or on nails to soften brittleness.

Now this, I have to try.  It has so many benefits that I would wish to come true.  Will update you soon with this one on a separate blog.

Canmake Powder Cheeks

full size

Regular Price: 390php

This finely milled powder blush from Canmake gently colors your skin , for a soft and natural finish.  Just dust lightly over your cheeks for a warmer complexion and a more colorful look.  It comes with a cute compact case so you can take it wherever you go.

I really need a good blush-on that wont feel to heavy on my skin.  For a morena like me, this shade is absolutely gorgeous and natural looking when applied.

Revlon Colorburst Lipgloss

fullsize @ 5.9ml

Regular Price: 570php

Color: Bordeaux

Get a pop of weightless color with vivid, mirror-like shine with Colorburst's Elasticolor technology and its micro-crystal formula.  It is also packed with moisturizers and anti-oxidants such as sweet almond oil and vitamin E which conditions and improves lip texture.

The color is actually for plumish and darker than the picture.  Will have to make a swatch if this actually goes well with my complexion. 

Yves Rocher Naturelle Eau de Toilette

sampler size @  7.5ml

Regular Price: 1495php for a 50ml size

Composed of 90@ natural ingredients, this fresh and sparkling scent will infuse your aura with a blend of green, floral and fruity notes.  It has facets of crisp green apple, an innocent floral heart of Egyptian jasmine absolute and peach blossom, grounded by hints of Virginian cedar, amber and musk.

The bottle is not full and the cover is a bit tricky to remove.   If you are not careful, the contents may spill out.  Will do a separate review on this when I use at work to test how long will it last.

Plus a BONUS item: Saforelle Gentle Cleansing Care

sampler size @60ml

Regular Price: 159.75 for a 100ml size

I already got a 100ml size of this from another box and I am having my daughter use this because it is a bit hypoallergenic. Its a good item since I no longer need to buy another one :)

This box came with a curator card.  One thing I noticed though is that in the BDJ Box 7-day challenge instruction, it says to use the ZA Perfect Solution Moisturizer from the November Box.  Not sure if this is an error or only selected few are able to join because I definitely received a cleansing foam and not a moisturizer.

The stickers for the Stick It to Win It were already put into good use that is why you only see 3 stickers in the pictures. :)

There were no coupons for this box.  Summing up all the full sized products, the box's worth is roughly P 1305.00  which is not bad cause I still got more than what I paid for :)  also, the sample size of the other products are still big enough for me to use for a while to see the benefits.

Now I can't wait for the December Box :D.  Hoping it to be very great since it is after all Christmas.

See you on my next Unboxing Bellas!

BDJ Box : October '13 Express It! Queen of Extreme Unboxing

Hooray!  My first BDJ Box Subscription arrived!!!

This month's theme:

Express It: Queen of Extreme

Brandline:

M A Y B E L L I N E  New York

I received a curated box which is quite sturdy and being a recycling enthusiast this box is not going anywhere unused :D

The box is a bit small from reviews I received, so I was curious and opened it at once.  The box is initially covered by a book cover-like hard paper indicating the theme for this month.  So from this alone, you know that it is a full line make-up from Maybelline.  Well, I had been a Maybelline user and most of my make-up are from Maybelline.  Initially, I thought I was going to be disappointed since I was expecting something new... but then again, why should I complain, I am a Maybelline user which meant I no longer have to shell out too much money on buying these products when my stocks get exhausted :D

Going bock to my unboxing:

Let us have a walk-through to all that I got:

Baby Lips Runway Brights in Pink Peony

A lipbalm with a hint of color.  We had gotten used to colorless lipbalms but for those who have natural looking lips who aren't used to putting too much lipsticks, this is a go.  The color isn't that much pigmented but would give just a hint of color for your lips without drying it.

I have once indicated in my previous blog how my daughter loves lipgloss and lipbalms.  This is not an exemption.  As soon as I opened the box, the first thing she grabbed was this and made a claim on it :D

Volum' Express Rocket Mascara in Black

Now I am sure I won't be running out of mascaras soon.  I got a lot of stocks now in different brands that I will get to try.  However this is my first time to try this out from Maybelline.  It claims to have a fast glide formula that will give you thick and beautiful lashes in just a moment.

picture courtesy of Maybelline.com.uk

It boast of micro bristles for even application from roots to tips and a rigid core to achieve sleek volume instantly. 

Clear Smooth BB Stick 8-in-1 Skin Transformer in Fresh

For a clear and smooth base in 1 go. This anti-shine powder in a stick provides 8 different skin benefits:

Controls Shine

Lasts all Day (up to 12 hours)

Clears dark spots

Refines. reduces appearance of skin pores

Conceals

Evens skin tone

Smoothens skin

Protects with SPF21 

OK.  I had been wanting to try this eversince I saw one in a grocery store.  I am a BB cream lover, so this one is something new coming from a stick.  However, I am not sure if the color provided to me is applicable for my skin color.  I'll try make some swatches at a Maybelline store first before I try out this one.

Cheeky Glow in  Peachy Sweetie

This one just came in time since I don't have a blush to use. I can play wih this color since I can definitely use it at work without looking too much made up.

Clear Smooth All in One Shine-Free Foundation in Honey

Again, I am not sure if the shade given to me is appropriate for my skin tone, but will try to take a swatch first.  This shade may be a little too light for me.

Color Sensational Lasting Lipcolor in Coral Crush

I am not sure if the color is again appropriate for me to wear on a daily use but I just acquired a red lipstick which I couldn't wear alone, so I usually mix it up with a nude color to lighten it up.. might be able to use lip color for the same purpose.  Actual color is lighter, so I need to darken it a bit :)

EyeStudio Master EyeLiner in Black

Now this one, I literally cried. Why?..because I just bought one and still in its original packaging. huhuhu.. If I knew I'm gonna receive this, I wouldn't have bought one.  Sayang ang 399... oh well, I can always keep it as spare :D  This is one of my must haves in my kikay kit (lipcolor, eyeliner, mascara, face powder)

Along with the maybelline products, I also received these:

a voucher for a free makeup remover

An ATM type membership card where you can earn points for free products

A welcome card from BDJ

A guide to get the Queen of Extreme Look

So was the Php580 beauty box subscription worth it?

Doing the math, all the products (excluding the coupons and membership card) cost about Php P1973, which is 3x more than the subscription amount.  Do I need to say more?

For more inquiries and if you are interested in subscribing please visit the BDJ Box website.

Have you opened your BDJ Box already.  Please do share what you got. I would be happy to hear from you ..

Thanks and see you in my next unboxing :)