How to Make a Shaker Box or Shelf Sitter

Shaker or Shelf Sitter boxes are fun, easy to make, and make great decorative pieces or gifts. Follow this four-step guide to create your own unique shaker box!

Overview

These designs are built in multiple layers. In the example below, we’ll use 4 layers. You can customize the number of side layers to make your shaker box as thick as you like.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Layer 1: Bottom Layer

• This is the base of your shaker box.

• Design Tips:

  • The red lines in the template are cut lines.

  • The yellow lines are score lines to help guide painting. You can choose to score or ignore them.

• Material: Typically a sturdy material.

• Purpose: Acts as the foundation and painting guide for your design.

Layer 2: Side Layers

• These layers add depth and create the inner space for your shaker elements.

• Instructions:

  • Cut as many copies of this layer as needed depending on your desired thickness.

• Material: Acrylic, Wood or MDF.

• Purpose: Forms the walls of the shaker box.

Layer 3: Clear Acrylic Window

• This transparent layer seals the shaker contents inside.

• Instructions:

  • Cut one piece using clear acrylic.

• Material: Clear acrylic sheet.

• Purpose: Acts as a viewing window into the shaker box.

Layer 4: Accent/Top Layer

• This final layer adds decorative detailing to the top.

• Instructions:

  • Cut in your desired accent colors. For example, to make a candy corn-themed design, use white, orange, and yellow.

  • Alternatively, you can use Layer 2 here if you prefer a solid color top instead.

• Material: Wood, MDF, or colored acrylic.

• Purpose: Final visual design touch.

Finishing Tips

• Assemble the layers using craft glue or acrylic adhesive, lining up the edges precisely.

• Fill the shaker box (after assembling Layer 1 and Layer 2) with small fun items like sequins, beads, or glitter before adding the acrylic window (Layer 3).

• Seal with the clear acrylic and then apply the top accent layer.

• Paint or decorate as desired!

Share Your Creation

Once finished, we’d love to see what you’ve made! Share your shaker box on social media and tag us: @craftclosetsupply.