Fun Lunch Boxes

Vintage

• Locate a website or dealer that sells vintage lunch boxes to see what kind of nostalgic goodies you can find, but be warned that many places charge quite a bit for these collector's boxes. A website like LunchBoxes.com will give you access to images of sometimes limited-edition vintage boxes. Featuring lunch boxes from the 1960s, 1970s and beyond, this website can get a bit pricey for finding a usable and fun lunch box.

Think Outside the Box

• Having a boxed lunch doesn't have to be boring, and you can mix and match different containers to use instead of a traditional lunchbox. Consider some of the following ordinary items that can serve as alternatives: unused cosmetic pouches, sushi boxes, small toolboxes and even colored plastic containers can work. Carrying a fashionably designed thermos stuffed with small edibles can also be a fun variation of a lunch box.

Custom Lunch Box

• Create a one-of-a-kind lunch box by gathering the following tools and items: fabric glue, sequins, two 12-by-12-inch squares of fabric (color optional), scissors, standard plastic lunch box, hot glue gun with glue sticks, two strips of leather (12-inch long by 1-inch thick each) and a threaded needle. Line the inside of the lunch box with one of the 12-by-12-inch squares of fabric and use the hot glue gun to adhere it to the plastic. Close the lunch box and cover the outside of the box carefully with the other square of fabric. Pay attention to the closure of the box and try not to get any hot glue on it, as it will prevent the box from opening and closing properly. Sew the strips of fabric into the fabric that is glued nearest the closure, and sew it from underneath to make it look neatly done. Dot hot glue on the seams to prevent breakage, and finish the custom look by using the fabric glue to attach sequins to the fabric. Make your own designs with the sequins, and use a variety of vibrant colors.