How To Make a Pentagonal Box

Read all of the steps before starting.

Step 1: Choose a Pattern and Print It

Choose a box to make. Download and print the pattern. The boxes come in three sizes with four versions of each size—plain colored, plain black & white, patterned colored, patterned black & white. The patterned boxes feature Adinkra symbols from Ghana in west Africa. The blue box features Adinkra Mframadan, a symbol of fortitude and preparedness. The small purple box features Adinkra Dwennimmen, a symbol of humility and strength. The small green box features Adinkra Adinkrahene, a symbol of leadership and greatness.

Tip: Want other colors or patterns for your boxes? Print the black & white patterns onto colored cardstock or print the plain patterns onto patterned cardstock. Download Aunt Annie's ePapers to print your own patterned cardstock.

Pentagon Box

Colored - B&W

Small Pentagon Boxes

Colored - B&W

Colored - B&W

Colored - B&W

Patterns are Adobe PDF files. The Adobe Reader is available for free.

All of Aunt Annie's project patterns are designed to be printed on standard letter-size paper (8.5"x11" or A4). When printing from Adobe Reader, you may need to select Auto-Rotate and Center or Choose paper source by PDF page size to ensure the best fit.

Step 2: Cut

Cut out the box pattern on the black outline. Try to make the cuts very straight. The box will be stronger and go together better if the cuts are straight.

Using a straight edge and craft knife will make some of the cutting easier, but be sure to protect the table with a cutting mat or thick piece of cardboard. Caution: Be careful. Craft knives are sharp and should not be used by children.

Step 3: Score

Turn the box with the marked lines up. Score along each of the fold lines, red in this illustration, using a bone folder or empty ballpoint pen drawn along the edge of a ruler.

Step 4: Fold Sides and Glue Tabs

Fold one side along the score line, then unfold. Repeat for the other sides and glue tabs for both the box and the lid.

Tip: Make all of the folds sharp by running your thumbnail or a bone folder firmly along the fold.

Step 5: Glue

 Gently shape the box sides into a pentagon shape. Be sure the glue tabs are on the inside. Glue the tabs to the sides of the box with a good craft glue. Repeat for the lid. Decorate as you please, but be sure the box bottom and lid will still go together easily.

Tip: Use alligator hair clips to hold the glued joints until the glue has set.