Crafting a memory box can help us cherish the moments that matter most to us. Here’s how to start your collection

Time flies and, before you know it, the moments that brought us so much joy are a thing of the past. But we don’t have to let those feelings slip away. Keeping a memory box is a great way to gather together bits and pieces that have the power to transport us to another time. Ready to start your collection? We’ve got five tips to get you started.

Box it up

You don’t have to go out and spend a lot of money on a box. In fact, your memory box could be something as simple as a repurposed shoe-box. But whatever you start with, you can use this as an opportunity to get crafty. Cover your box in wrapping paper, newspaper or magazine cuttings, or fabric – new, or saved from old sentimental items. Get your creative juices flowing, and make something meaningful to you.

What’s the theme?

While it can be fun to pull out surprises, if you’re planning on saving a lot, you don’t have to cram it all into the same box. In fact, categorising things into themes can help you relive times that you feel especially nostalgic for. You might decide to create a box for a certain period of your life, or for a relationship or friendship. Or if you are putting things in together, you could craft pouches to sort items by dates or significance.

Does it spark joy?

You will know intuitively what does and doesn’t hold emotional value to you. At the same time, you don’t have to keep everything, and shouldn’t feel guilty about letting some things go. Keep the things that tell a story, and to which you have the strongest emotional connection.

Share the load

A memory box can be a deeply personal thing, or it can be something to share with loved ones. You might start a memory box for a baby, to give to them when they turn 18, or you might make one for a partner to celebrate a special anniversary or milestone. Save items from things that you have done together, or that remind you of them, and create something distinctly unique.

An attitude of gratitude

With every item that you put into your box, take a moment to reflect on why it means something to you. Through the ups and downs, it’s important to take time to acknowledge how our past has led us to the places where we are today. Whatever you put in your memory box, no matter how odd or insignificant it might seem to others, reflect on how it touched your life, and shaped the person that you are today.