Hidden Creek Open Top Box with File Folder Minis

Hidden Creek Open Top Box with File Folder Minis

by Nancy Wethington

This fun and functional project from The Button Farm Club is called the Tiered Box with File Folders, and it’s designed by Nancy Wethington. It's a beautiful from-scratch folio-style project that turns a chipboard box and cardstock into a tiered file folder treasure trove—perfect for memory keeping, photos, journaling, or just a gorgeous display.

🧰 What’s in the Kit?

• GSL Three-Tiered Chipboard Open Top Box – the structural base.

• 12x12 Arden Creative Hidden Creek Paper Pad & Ephemera Pack – soft, nature-inspired artwork.

• 20 sheets of Bazzill Cardstock 

• Hardware & Details – metal bookplate + brads, large black paper clip, and kraft tag.

You’ll also need tools like a scoreboard, envelope punch board, adhesives, scissors, distress ink, and a paper trimmer. Optional tools like a round punch and corner chomper can add extra polish.

📁 Project Overview:

You’ll assemble a three-tiered chipboard box, then create three custom file folders that nest inside, each built from cardstock and layered with interactive booklets, pockets, flips, tucks, and tags.

Each file folder is sized differently for a tiered effect and follows a detailed layout:

1. Tallest Folder – Contains a decorated fold-out booklet with pockets, journaling spots, photo mats, and a belly band.

2. Mid-size Folder – Features gussets, a clever hinged page, layered pockets, and interactive flaps.

3. Shortest Folder – Holds a small flip booklet, multiple hidden pockets, and sweet pull tabs with tags.

You’ll use nearly every scrap of paper and ephemera to decorate inside and out, using creative cuts and smart construction to maximize materials.

✨ Highlights & Creative Touches:

• Tabs punched with an envelope board give the file folders an authentic and whimsical finish.

• Every folder turns into a mini album on its own.

• Clever touches like "tuck behinds," belly bands, and flips give you room for journaling, small photos, and ephemera.

• The final presentation? A gorgeously layered box filled with interactive folder-folios—ready for gift-giving or memory keeping.