SQUIRREL! One of my best-selling listings, the Pair of Origami Squirrels with a Red Heart, has been winning hearts left and right. Picture this: two adorable origami squirrels, cozily nestled with a bright red heart, all beautifully displayed in a handcrafted wooden shadow box. This 8×10 inch treasure is more than just art; it’s a story waiting to be told. Today, I’m excited to share the magic behind its creation, the special supplies that bring it to life, and the burst of inspiration that made it happen. ✨
This Pair of Origami Squirrels with a Red Heart was initially a custom order request on Etsy. A customer wanted a unique and meaningful gift to celebrate their first wedding anniversary, and they specifically asked for origami squirrels to symbolize their playful and enduring bond. I was immediately inspired by this idea and set out to create something truly special. Once the custom piece was complete, I knew it had to be shared with a wider audience. And so, this delightful creation became one of my popular listings.
Steps on How to Make Your Own Squirrel Shadowbox 🐿️
Essential Supplies:
- 8×10 inch shadow box
- 2 sheets of 6×6 inch origami paper or patterned origami paper
- 1 sheet of 2×2 inch origami paper
- Liquid Nails glue
- Sticky notes
- Toothpick
- Individual weights
- Ruler
- X-acto knife
- Pencil
- Cricut mat
My crafting tools are essential. Liquid Nails glue ensures the pieces stay securely in place. I use toothpicks for precise glue application and sticky notes to protect the paper from the weights I use—individual calibration weights perfect for holding down the paper without damage. My ergonomic X-acto knife makes precise cuts, and my self-healing Cricut crafting mat ensures clean, accurate cuts.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Open the shadowbox and remove the backboard. With the backboard, position the heart slightly above the middle and place the squirrels below on the sides, as shown in the nearing and below pictures. I typically guesstimate their placements, but ensuring they are equal in length. 😅
Using a toothpick, apply a small dab of Liquid Nails glue under the heart. Cover the heart with a sticky note and place a weight on top to hold it in place while it dries. Repeat this process for the squirrels: apply glue behind them, cover with sticky notes, and place weights on top. Allow the glue to dry completely. I typically wait 1 hour minimum.
Once the glue is dry, reattach the backboard to the shadowbox frame and secure it.
Ta-da! You’ve crafted your very own squirrel shadowbox! 🥳 Please be sure to share your creations with me at @orikim_creations on Instagram! I can’t wait to see all the beautiful squirrel shadowboxes you make. 🐿️
What makes this piece truly special is not just the craftsmanship but the story and symbolism it carries. Each time someone orders this shadow box, they’re not just buying a piece of art—they’re getting a heartfelt reminder of love, playfulness, and the beauty of thoughtful planning. It’s a conversation starter, a unique decor piece, and a cherished gift all in one.
If you’re looking for a meaningful and beautiful piece of art to celebrate a special bond, the Pair of Origami Squirrels with a Red Heart is perfect. Head over to my Etsy shop to get yours today and bring a touch of love and playfulness into your home—or start crafting your own! 😊
These supplies can be found on my Origami Supplies page.