Open a matchbox, and suddenly you’re peeking into a winter wonderland.

One box might hold a candy cane tucked in snow, another a cozy image of old-fashioned Christmas cheer.

These dioramas transform simple materials into magical worlds that remind you of holiday cards come to life.

Creating them is a bit like bottling up joy and hiding it inside the smallest of keepsakes.

Materials Needed

• 5-10 empty matchboxes (standard size: 2.25” × 1.4” × 0.5”)
• Small printed vintage Christmas images (about 1.5” × 2” each)
• Miniature candy canes or cutouts (approx. 2” long)
• Mini bottlebrush trees (1”-1.5” height)
• Red, green, and silver glitter glue (1 bottle each)
• Assorted scrapbook paper (6” × 6” sheets, Christmas patterns)
• Hot glue gun or craft glue (1 tube)
• Scissors and tweezers
• Optional: tiny beads, sequins, or ribbon scraps (under 1” wide)

Step-by-step Guide

Step 1: Paint or cover the outside of each matchbox with scrapbook paper in festive colors. Let them dry completely before decorating inside.

Step 2: Line the inside of the box with patterned paper to create a backdrop, snowflakes, stripes, or holly work beautifully.

Step 3: Cut and glue small vintage images to serve as the focal point. Place them at the back for depth.

Step 4: Add miniature props like candy canes or bottlebrush trees. Use tweezers to position them carefully.

Step 5: Outline the frame with glitter glue or sequins for sparkle.

Step 6: Finally, arrange all boxes in a row or stack them to form a festive display.

Tips:

Try making a series, one box for each day leading up to Christmas, almost like a tiny advent calendar.