Chica and Jo Chica and Jo

DIY tutorials, party ideas, recipes, crafts, and tips for everyday life

Chica and Jo Chica and Jo

DIY tutorials, party ideas, recipes, crafts, and tips for everyday life

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Mini Travel Bar Made from Japanese Mid-century Bread Box

by: Jo
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Mini Travel Bar Made from Japanese Mid-century Bread Box
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On a recent thrift store expedition, I came across a super cute wooden box with doors. I had no idea what its original purpose was but I knew I right away I was going to transform this vintage wooden box into the cutest mini bar ever.

Mini bar made from Japanese mid-century bread box

I love how this wooden box has two doors that open to the sides, which I found very unique. A short amount of Googling told me this is actually a mid-century, Japanese bread box. You can find lots of versions out there, and this technique can be applied to any similar box you find that you like.

Mini bar made from Japanese mid-century bread box

Let's start with some pattern! The paper that I decoupaged onto the inside back wall was actually liner paper from a box of chocolates I bought in Bruggem, Belgium. I loved the pattern and memory so much that I decided this mini bar was the perfect time to use it. Since you guys can't easily get this particular paper, I scanned it in so you can download it.

Mini bar made from Japanese mid-century bread box

I wanted to add a bit of wow factor when you open the doors, so I covered the sides and bottom of the box with some fun mini adhesive mirror tile in rose gold.

Mini bar made from Japanese mid-century bread box

I didn't want to cover all the wood, but the doors did need a bit of color. I used Americana Celery Green to paint a band along the middle of the doors, inside and out. I used FrogTape to ensure a crisp line along the edges.

Mini bar made from Japanese mid-century bread box

To make this even more portable, I drilled some holes in the top and added a handle.

Mini bar made from Japanese mid-century bread box

For a final touch, I printed out a recipe for a classic martini and used our custom-made photo corners to attach it inside the door as a handy reference that can also be easily swapped out for other recipes if the mood strikes me.

Mini bar made from Japanese mid-century bread box

I can't wait to show up at my friends' houses carrying my own personal mini martini bar.

Mini bar made from Japanese mid-century bread box

Have party, will travel!

Mini bar made from Japanese mid-century bread box

I filled the box with mini martini glasses, some cocktail napkins, a small ice bucket, and small bottles of liquor and olives. The mini proportions of everything make it that much cuter!

Mini Travel Bar Made from Japanese Mid-century Bread Box
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One comment so far:

  • 1
    Pauline 09/18/2020 at 4:27 pm

    A perfect gift for my uncle!

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Chica and Jo

Hi there! We are Chica and Jo, best friends who love to create whenever we can. From fun DIY projects to elaborate parties to delicious recipes, you're sure to find ideas that will inspire you. Take a look around and follow us @chicaandjo to see what we're up to today.

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