Hooked on Handmade! The Perfect Gift Box Idea for a Fisherman Video Tutorial

It’s always the same challenge, isn’t it? When it comes to handmade projects, we crafters tend to have plenty of ideas for birthdays, holidays, and even just-because cards… but when it’s time to make something for the men in our lives—especially those who love the outdoors—we suddenly hit a creative block.

I ran into this exact situation recently. My brother is the kind of guy who wears his fishing vest more often than a jacket. He’s happiest with a rod in one hand and a tackle box in the other. So when I wanted to make a little handmade gift for him (nothing too big—just a few fishing-themed treats), I knew I needed something more than a basic card or a store-bought bag.

That’s when inspiration struck—and let me just say, I am hooked on how it turned out.

Today I’m sharing a fun little 3D project that’s perfect for the fisherman (or outdoorsman) in your life: a pizza box-style gift box decked out with a die-cut vest using the Pizza Box Die Set and Vest Gift Bag Add-on Die Set from Pixi Dust Designs. It’s rugged, charming, and a perfect example of how dies can go way beyond cards.

Hooked on Handmade! The Perfect Gift Box Idea for a Fisherman:

The Perfect Pair of Dies for Masculine Gift Giving

If you’ve followed me for a while, you know how much I love stretching my supplies—and this combination of dies is just plain clever.

The Pizza Box Die Set is a great basic that I think every paper crafter needs in their stash. It’s quick to assemble and sturdy enough to hold little gifts, candies, or even a gift card. I cut mine from Brilliant White 110 lb Cardstock by Harmony Hues, and let me tell you, that cardstock is a dream for projects like this. It’s thick, crisp, and holds folds beautifully.

Then comes the fun part: turning it into a fisherman’s vest. That’s where the Vest Gift Bag Add-On Die Set comes in. I used Kraft 110 lb Cardstock for the vest base and added the vest top and pocket details in rich, earthy tones from the Kaleidoscope Cardstock 110 lbs Cardstock—greens, tans, deep browns. It instantly gave that woodsy, well-worn vibe you want in a masculine project.

Pro Tip: When making masculine projects, lean into textures and colors that evoke nature—think canvas tones, forest greens, and woodgrain embossing. Even though we’re working with paper, it’s all about creating that rugged feel.

A Few Details Make a Big Impact

I’m always surprised by how a few small touches can take a simple die-cut and make it feel really special. For this box, I added stitched detail panels to the sides using the included stitched dies from the pizza box set. I love how they break up the space and make the box feel finished from all angles.

And those vest details? So fun. I used the little accessory dies to create pockets, tabs, and even added tiny faux buttons. You could easily go a step further and pop a mini fishing pole die-cut or a tiny lure into one of the pockets. Or if you’re gifting this to a fly-fishing fan, tuck in a handmade tag that looks like a fly!

This little project came together faster than I expected. Once everything was die-cut, it was just a matter of layering and adhering. I used a strong liquid adhesive so I had a little wiggle room to get everything lined up just right.

Not Just a Box, But a Whole Experience

The best part? When my brother opened it, he lit up. He couldn’t believe I had made something just for him—and something that looked so much like his own gear! I filled the inside with chocolate fishing bobbers and a small gift card to his favorite bait and tackle shop.

That’s the magic of handmade. It’s not just a container. It’s a keepsake.

Pro Tip: Try adding a personal touch inside the box—like a stamped sentiment, a handwritten note, or even a tiny accordion photo strip. It’s the little things that make handmade gifts unforgettable.

Ready to Reel One In?

I hope today’s post gave you some fresh inspiration for masculine gifts—and maybe even a reason to pull out your 3D dies and give a new project a try. This idea is perfect for Father’s Day, birthdays, or just a sweet “thinking of you” for the outdoor lovers in your life.

If you do give this idea a go, I’d love to see what you make! Be sure to tag me or leave a comment letting me know how it turned out. Let’s keep inspiring each other, one handmade project at a time.

Until next time, happy crafting!

Hooked on Handmade! The Perfect Gift Box Idea for a Fisherman Video Tutorial:

Watch the Project Come to Life

If you want to see exactly how this little vest box comes together, I’ve got you covered! Head over to my YouTube channel where I walk you through the process and share a few extra tips along the way. You’ll see how easy it is to combine these two die sets into something completely unique—and totally giftable.

If you have problems watching the video here on my blog you can always watch it on my YouTube Channel by Clicking here!

(Wondering what I used in this video? Everything is linked to multiple sources in the thumbnails at the end of this post, or in the text below. Compensated affiliate links used when possible). As always I appreciate your support of my videos!

Materials Used:

Here you will find the list of supplies that I used to create today's card. All supplies are linked to supply sources below. Compensated affiliate links may be used at no cost to you.

Happy Stampin'

Rick Adkins

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