Project Overview
This small, walnut-framed Memory Box contains a collection of sentimental keepsakes celebrating the first year of baby Clem’s life.

“The memory box feels like such a timeless way to showcase a special moment in time. The curation and presentation are such beautiful quality and made for precious keepsakes for our daughter’s nursery now and forever for her to keep.” – Felicity

The Client’s Story
Felicity, a writer living in South London, reached out after discovering my bespoke Memory Boxes on social media. She and her husband wanted to create a Memory Box filled with mementoes they had collected since the birth of their first child. Transforming these tiny, precious items into a Memory Box for their newly decorated nursery felt like the perfect way to celebrate Clem’s first birthday.

Our Creative Journey
Initial Consultation
Felicity knew she wanted a small Memory Box from the outset, so we began by discussing the types of items that would fit best. She packaged and posted the keepsakes to me, and a week later, I received a delightful package filled with the most adorable tiny baby items. Among them were a beautiful crocheted hat and booties made for Clem by her Grandma, her tiny hospital wristband, a baby scan photograph, and a lock of hair from Clem’s first haircut. The cohesive colours and style spoke volumes about their beautifully curated life, and I felt honoured to be entrusted with their treasured items.

Design Development
I trialled several arrangements to incorporate as many items as possible, although some had to be excluded due to their dominance in the design. We quickly settled on a preferred arrangement, but there were a couple of gaps. I asked Felicity if she could search her collection for an additional item, 1cm or smaller, preferably in yellow to balance the colours. She promptly provided a perfect little button and a hair clip.

Crafting with Care
With the layout approved, I considered how to attach some of the items, as a few materials were new to me. To preserve the crocheted hat effectively, I sewed in some acid-free mount board to stiffen it before attaching it to the backing. The hair proved to be even trickier – possibly the most challenging element I’ve ever worked with. Its small, fine, and silky texture made it difficult to manipulate. Ultimately, I secured it with a twist of wire around the middle and used a bit of hairspray to give it grip.

Framing Choices
Once the layout was secure, I explored framing options. Although Felicity initially preferred a light oak finish, we ultimately agreed that a deep walnut frame, which I had successfully used in the past, would be the best choice.

The Result
The final Memory Box is a beautiful piece that now hangs proudly in Clem’s newly decorated nursery in their South London home.