DIY Apple Box Craft – Rustic Charm from Paint Sticks!

Looking for a fun and easy rustic fall craft? This DIY Apple Box is made from simple materials like paint sticks and popsicle sticks—but the end result is farmhouse perfection. Great for seasonal decorating or a centerpiece on your table, this charming wooden crate is perfect filled with moss, mini apples, or even candles. Let’s get crafting!

🧰 Supplies You'll Need:

• 6 quart-sized paint stir sticks (4 cut in half)
• 4 regular popsicle sticks
• Waverly Antique Wax (or paint/stain of your choice)
• Hot glue gun
• Scissors, wire cutters or small saw (to trim sticks)
• 4 small wood apples (for feet)
• Mini calendar images (for decorative panels)
• Spanish moss
• Mini faux apples

🪵 Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prep Your Wood Pieces

Start by cutting 4 of your quart-sized paint sticks in half. These 8 halves will form the walls of your box. You’ll also need 4 regular popsicle sticks to secure the structure.

2. Paint or Stain

Apply Waverly Antique Wax or your choice of paint/stain to all the wood pieces. Let them dry completely for a nice rustic finish.

3. Build the Box Sides

Take four pairs of halved paint sticks (8 total) and glue them side-by-side to form your four walls. Secure each wall by gluing a popsicle stick horizontally across each side to hold the slats together. Trim off any overhanging edges.

4. Assemble the Box

Glue the four sides together to create your open box frame.

5. Create the Bottom

Use the remaining paint sticks that are not cut to create the bottom of the box. Glue them across the bottom opening, then trim any pieces that stick out. There will be some gaps

6. Decorate the Box

For a cute and custom touch, I cut out small pictures from the back of calendar and glued them to the front. Choose seasonal or themed images to personalize it.

7. Add Feet

Glue one small wooden apple to each corner underneath your box to create adorable and sturdy feet. You can keep them wood color, paint or stain them. (I did paint mine red)

8. Fill and Display!

To finish, I added Spanish moss and some tiny faux apples inside the crate. You can also use it to display mini pumpkins, candles, or even wrapped treats!

🍎 Crafting Tip:

This apple box makes a great gift idea or craft fair piece. Change out the images and contents for different holidays!

📸 Share Your Version!

If you try this DIY Apple Box, I’d love to see it! Tag me on social media @PurplePenguinCraftRoom and show off your creation. 🍂