Thinking “outside” the Takeout Box Course Description

Mixed Media

Four Lessons $45

1-Create a sheet of cotton/parchment

2-Create the Take out Box

3-Create embellishments and handle

4-Create the contents: Fushi (Faux Shushi)

This is a light hearted and fun course.  You will learn how to create a unique version of the simple and common Chinese “takeout box”.

The Take out Box has an amazingly and clever design.  When flat it is actually an “x”; when folded up the sides overlap at two points and the top interlocks.  I will provide the pattern and instructions and you provide the originality and you will create your very own, one- of- a- kind Chinese Takeout Box.

The box will be made out of “cotton/parchment”.  This is made by layering cotton muslin and various types of paper that are torn into small pieces.  These are bonded together and painted to make a wonderful layered (and sturdy) base to fold and create with.  The inside of the box is lined with a fabric

I have chosen to use a logical theme relating to food; however, you may use any theme you like.

The box is embellished on the outside with fish shapes.  The fish are made with a second layering process I call “tulle trap”.  A variety of embellishments are combined and sandwiched between painted interfacing and tulle and then used as the source for shapes that are used as embellishments.

A Take out Box is a container.  Again, it is logical to think of food thus, we will also fill it with a remarkably realistic food item typically associated with Asian cuisine that I call: “Fushi” (fabric/sushi).  A divided tray will be made to hold four fushi.

The box will be finished with a custom handle of wire, beads, old costume jewelry and/or buttons.

All stitching is done by machine except for hand embellishments.

There is a minimal amount of machine sewing but you do need to be comfortable with free motion stitching and have a sewing machine that does zigzag/satin stitch.

This box makes a great gift.  The cotton/.parchment is a versatile surface and has multiple applications; this is only one way to use it.

I look forward to Thinking “outside” the “Takeout Box” with you.

Debbie Babin