Store the crafts materials in an empty shoe box or another box similar in size. Gather as many of the same size or similar size boxes as possible to make several boxes for various activities. This uniformity will enable you to stack the boxes on a shelf and keep the prop boxes organized and accessible. Depending on the theme of the selected crafts, a larger box may be needed. Use your judgment to select a box that will accommodate all the supplies needed for one theme.
Plan the supplies for the craft prop boxes according to the ages of the children who will play with them. A young child will require more basic supplies, such as blunt scissors, crayons and construction paper. An older child might be able to handle more advanced projects, such as creating an ornament with sequins and pins on a Styrofoam ball or stringing beads. Think about how advanced and dexterous the child is, and select supplies accordingly to reduce frustration and to encourage creativity.
Gather supplies to place in the boxes. Save money by repurposing items you might otherwise throw away. Empty envelopes that come with junk mail can be placed in a post office prop box. Grocery store fliers featuring pictures of food can fill a restaurant prop box. An empty egg carton can be used to sort sequins and beads. Don't stop with typical art supplies when filling your prop boxes.
Make one craft prop box to hold all the craft supplies. If the idea of coming up with several themes is overwhelming at first, focus on one craft prop box to hold basic craft supplies, such as glue sticks, blunt scissors, blank paper, stickers, markers, colored pencils, crayons and tape. Add appropriate items to the generic craft prop box as inspiration strikes.
Designate craft prop boxes for specific activities, such as a post office craft prop box or a restaurant craft prop box. By devoting a single theme to each prop box, you'll help your child focus on preparing letters to mail or making a menu for her restaurant. Look around the house for props to add to your craft prop box. Be on the lookout for items to complete a theme, and save the craft prop boxes until they are complete and will provide a good play experience for the child.