Norajean Design Studio

Betty Boop Vending Machine

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 02:21:28 GMT

DIY Betty Boop Vending Machine Candy Dispenser (Made from Cardboard!)

If you love retro charm , creative crafts , and a sweet treat , this project combines all three! Inspired by the classic Betty Boop aesthetic and powered by a little DIY magic, I built my very own Betty Boop Candy Vending Machine Dispenser —and the best part? It’s made entirely from cardboard.

This project was inspired by techniques I learned from two amazing YouTube creators: UnHiro and DIY Ocean , who both make incredible cardboard vending machine tutorials. I combined their methods with my own design ideas to create a one-of-a-kind, functional piece of nostalgia.

Inspiration Behind the Build

I’ve always been fascinated by old-school vending machines , and Betty Boop’s vintage style fits perfectly with that theme. The idea was to mix a retro character design with a working candy dispenser , creating something both decorative and interactive.

This project was extra special because it was made as a gift for a true Betty Boop enthusiast! Combining nostalgia with functionality made the whole process even more meaningful and fun.

Materials You’ll Need

Everything I used can easily be found around the house or at a local craft store:

Cardboard (medium to thick)
Cutter or craft knife
Hot glue gun and glue sticks
Ruler and pencil
Acrylic paints and paintbrushes
Hand Drawn Betty Boop image, typography
Small plastic or paper cups (for candy compartments)
Candies (M&Ms, Skittles, or mini chocolates)

How I Built It

Step 1: Sketch and Cut the Structure

I started by sketching out the base and the inner mechanism on cardboard. The dispenser design was inspired by UnHiro’s vending machine mechanism , which uses simple slots and levers to release candies one serving at a time.

Step 2: Assembling the Mechanism

Using DIY Ocean’s technique, I built a sliding candy tray system that lets you push and pull to dispense candies. It’s surprisingly satisfying once it works smoothly!

Step 3: Adding the Betty Boop Touch

I covered the cardboard with paper mache to give it a textured and sturdier surface. Then, I hand-drew the Betty Boop character directly onto the front and painted the outer shell with acrylics in a retro red-and-white color scheme .

Keeping with the vintage vibe, I inlaid glittered contact paper for extra sparkle and added foam accents to create a realistic rock-style texture. The combination of shine and texture really made the whole dispenser pop with that classic, old-school charm.

Step 4: Final Details

After everything dried, I tested it with candies—success! The dispenser not only works but looks adorable. It’s both a functional candy holder and a fun piece of décor.

The Final Result

The finished product is a retro-style candy dispenser that brings a smile every time. It’s proof that with a bit of creativity (and some cardboard!), you can turn simple materials into something truly unique.

Tips & Takeaways

Be patient when cutting and gluing cardboard layers and assembling this piece; precision makes a big difference.

Customize the design — try different themes, characters, or colors!

If you’re new to DIY, check out UnHiro and DIY Ocean on YouTube. Their tutorials are fantastic for beginners.

Video Coming Soon!

I’ll be posting a short video and close-up photos of my finished Betty Boop Candy Dispenser soon—stay tuned!

Betty Boop Home Decor Sign

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 03:30:00 GMT

Betty Boop DIY Home Decor Project

Add a Touch of Vintage Charm to Your Kitchen with This Handmade Piece This fun and easy DIY home decor project was inspired by the iconic Betty Boop cartoon. I found the perfect wooden piece at Dollar Tree—complete with a spinning center and engraved "Open" on one side and "Closed" on the other. It’s a cute and functional accent for any kitchen, especially if you’re a fan of vintage or character-themed decor!

To give it a special, handmade touch, I sculpted the Betty Boop character myself using air dry clay. Once dried, I painted and sealed it before attaching it to the wooden base. It adds a unique 3D element that really brings the piece to life!

Materials Used:

Wooden sign with spinning center (Dollar Tree)
Air dry clay (for sculpting the Betty Boop figure)
Acrylic paints (colors of your choice)
Paintbrushes or sponge brushes
Mod Podge or craft glue (for sealing and attaching)
Sandpaper (optional, for smoothing edges)
Ribbon, rhinestones, or embellishments (optional for extra flair)

This project is not only affordable but also full of character—literally! Whether you're a long-time Betty Boop fan or just love one-of-a-kind kitchen decor, this DIY is a fun way to get creative.

Bambi Keepsake Box

Sat, 20 Sep 2025 23:16:00 GMT

Transforming a Wooden Box into a Bambi-Inspired Gift

A Heartfelt Craft Inspired by My Granddaughter’s Love for Bambi

When my granddaughter expressed her love for Bambi, I knew I had to create something special for her. I started with a simple, small wooden box I picked up from Dollar Tree, and with a little creativity, I transformed it into a charming, personalized keepsake.
The process began by selecting a Bambi scene image online, which I used as a reference to contour the wood. I then added a touch of magic with white modeling clay, which I carefully shaped on top of the box, securing it with wood glue. To make it even more personal, I etched my granddaughter’s name into the design, adding that extra special touch. After giving it a full 24 hours to dry, I finished the project with a combination of acrylic and chalk paints, followed by wrapping a soft canvas ribbon around the box to complete the look.
Materials Used:

Small wooden box (Dollar Tree, 5"x5")
DAS Wood & White Modeling Clay
Wood Glue
Silicone Molds
Canvas Ribbon
Acrylic & Chalk Paint

This project is not only easy and affordable, but it’s also a meaningful way to show your love and create something that will be cherished for years to come.

The Bob Ross Workshop Story

Sat, 27 Apr 2024 05:56:00 GMT

From Bob Ross Inspiration to Artistic Passion: My Journey Through Painting Workshops

Exploring the Palette of Possibilities and Igniting a Lifelong Passion for Art

In my early elementary school years, while most kids tuned into cartoons, I found myself captivated by Bob Ross's television series. His soothing voice and mesmerizing artistry held my attention, becoming a source of inspiration that persisted as I grew older.
It wasn't until 1994, during my time at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, that I had the chance to bring my admiration for Bob Ross to life. The Army base offered three painting workshops, and I eagerly signed up, boarding a base shuttle with anticipation but no clear expectations of the outcome. Prepared with enough funds for the workshop, I joined a surprisingly large group of participants.
Under the guidance of a certified Bob Ross instructor, I embarked on a journey of creation, each stroke of the brush guided by their insightful expertise. The instructor provided all the necessary supplies, and as I painted, I marveled at the unfolding beauty on my canvas.
After each session, I carefully carried my wet paintings back home on the shuttle, ensuring their safe arrival. This experience ignited a fervent passion for art within me, refining my skills in landscape painting and laying the foundation for my artistic endeavors.
Since then, I've expanded my repertoire to include acrylic painting, eagerly immersing myself in new projects. As for the three paintings I created during those workshops, they now adorn the walls of my children's homes, cherished gifts infused with memories of a transformative experience.
Participating in those workshops was not just a creative endeavor; it was an honor, a pivotal moment that reaffirmed my love for art and the joy of self-expression.
Check out my Spider-Gwen acrylic painting here.

Crafting Timeless Beauty: A Tribute to 'Gone with the Wind'

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 04:32:00 GMT

An Upcycled Masterpiece Inspired by Literary and Cinematic Majesty

Inspired by my youngest sister's admiration for the classic novel and cinematic masterpiece, Gone with the Wind, this beautiful upcycled gift took shape. Originating as a bronzed metal clock purchased from Ross store years ago, its clock function eventually ceased. Contemplating between repairing the clock or embarking on an upcycling venture, I decided on the latter. Removing the clock mechanism altogether, I transformed it into a tribute to Gone with the Wind, embracing the allure of a shadow box aesthetic.
The Center The focal point of this creation emerges from a canvas painted with acrylics, meticulously crafted to depict the iconic scenery of the story. Textured paste breathed life into the house, mountains, and trees, while cardboard, textured paste, and air-dry clay formed the foreground. Miniature lights nestled within, delicately illuminating the scene, cleverly concealed along the oval edges. On the reverse side, vintage paper prints adorned with tiny poster images, sealed with decoupage, add depth and nostalgia.
The Frame Silicone molds discovered on Amazon became tools for shaping leaves, vines, corner accents, and frames from air-dry clay. Echoing the theme, Gone with the Wind imagery graces the bottom and sides through the art of decoupage. The entire piece finds cohesion under a coat of chalk paints, marrying the disparate elements into a harmonious whole.

Exciting DIY Projects Inspired by Marvel Comics

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 01:59:00 GMT

Marvel Mastery Unleashed: DIY Projects Featuring Deadpool, Thor, and Spider–Gwen!

A Marvelous Deadpool Housewarming Surprise

From Dollar Tree to Deadpool: A Creative Journey Unveiled

Marvel aficionados will delight in this one-of-a-kind creation, inspired by my sister's unwavering passion for Deadpool films. To commemorate her new home, I crafted this bespoke wall decor. Beginning with a simple, unpainted wooden "home" sign from Dollar Tree, I embarked on a journey of creativity.
Immersing myself in the iconic wit and irreverence of the Deadpool universe, I curated a collection of memorable movie phrases to adorn the piece. With Adobe Illustrator as my canvas, I meticulously outlined the contours of the home shape and expertly overlaid the chosen phrases.
Translating digital design into tangible artistry, I transferred the masterpiece onto inkjet paper, skillfully decoupaging it onto the wooden base. But no homage to Deadpool would be complete without the titular character himself. Employing air dry clay, I meticulously sculpted a miniature Deadpool, bringing him to life with vibrant acrylic paints.
The final creation stands as a testament to both craftsmanship and fandom, measuring approximately 12" in width and 5" in height.

Transform a cigar box into a cherished keepsake adorned with your beloved Marvel character!

Calling all Marvel enthusiasts!

Elevate your man cave aesthetic with a touch of your favorite Marvel character adorning a classic cigar box. Drawing inspiration from my ex son-in-law's unwavering admiration for Thor, I meticulously sketched his likeness onto a humble cigar box, transforming it into a work of art using a Dremel tool.

Sourced from Walmart, this cigar box underwent a remarkable metamorphosis under my hands. After staining it with a rich charcoal hue, I brought the design to life with vibrant acrylic paints, ensuring every detail resonated with the spirit of the Marvel universe.
Measuring a substantial 8.54" x 8.15" x 1.73", complete with sturdy hinges and a secure clasp, this wooden masterpiece is both functional and visually striking—a testament to your passion for Marvel.

Craft Your Own Three-Panel Canvas: Spider-Gwen Masterpiece!

Embark on the Ultimate Spider-Gwen DIY Adventure!

Captivated by my granddaughter's fascination with Spider–Gwen, I embarked on a creative journey to craft the perfect gift—a striking three-panel canvas masterpiece. Venturing to a local craft store, I procured the canvases and delved into the depths of Spider-Gwen's character, a realm previously unexplored in my Marvel knowledge.
Navigating through a plethora of captivating scenes, I carefully selected three favorites, each seamlessly fitting into the three-piece ensemble. Immersing myself in the world of newer Marvel characters proved to be both enlightening and exhilarating, enriching my own artistic journey.
The culmination of my efforts resulted in a birthday gift that exceeded expectations, igniting my granddaughter's passion for painting and sparking her curiosity for the diverse Marvel universe.
Dimensions: - Left and right canvas: 9"x12" - Center canvas: 12"x12"

Surprise Mom with a Peacock-Inspired Masterpiece!

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 18:03:00 GMT

Transform your bedside with a touch of charm by elevating your cell phone docking station to a delightful piece of decor

A unique Mother's Day gift!

Inspired by the grace of peacocks, I embarked on crafting a truly unique Mother's Day gift for my beloved mother. Drawing from a mix of readily available items and treasures from craft stores and Dollar Tree, I poured my heart into creating a personalized cell phone holder docking station.

Incorporating elements like a whimsical cowboy boot, a prominent 'M' representing her role as 'Mom,' and intricate peacock sculptures, each component was carefully chosen to reflect facets of my mother's life and personality. With acrylic hues mirroring her home decor and a nod to her Texan heritage, every detail was infused with sentiment.

The centerpiece of the design features two embracing peacocks, symbolizing my parents' enduring love, particularly poignant after my father's recent passing. To create depth, I crafted a backdrop reminiscent of scenes from 'Gone with the Wind,' adorned with meticulously placed feathers and textured elements.
Functionality met elegance with compartments for pens and trinkets, along the backside a built-in battery holder for ambient string lights. Also features a removable wooden box top, adorned with a delicate rose, adds a final flourish to this meticulously crafted piece.
From air-dry clay to textured paste, each material was thoughtfully selected to achieve the desired aesthetic and durability. The end result is a medium-weight masterpiece, exuding both sophistication and sentiment.

Presenting this labor of love to my mother on Mother's Day was a moment filled with joy and surprise. It's a testament to the power of creativity and personalized gestures in celebrating the ones we hold dear.

Materials:

Air Dry Clay
Wooden Craft Boards and Box
Acrylic Paints
Jewelry Accessories
String Lights
Paper Towels
Feathers
Lace
Textured Paste
Wood Glue
Silicone Molds

3 DIY Projects for Football Fanatics: Elevate Your Decor Game!

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 18:03:00 GMT

Discover three exciting DIY projects to enhance your man cave: an AZ Cardinals wood pallet, an AZ Cardinals cigar box, and a Kansas City Lombardi Trophy!

Transform your wall decor with a personalized touch by crafting a custom carved Arizona Cardinals wood pallet!

Crafting a Personalized Tribute to Team Spirit

If you have fellow football enthusiasts in your family, they're sure to appreciate this unique wood wall art gift, just like I did. Inspired by my grandson's passion for the Arizona Cardinals, I took a photo captured by their wonderful mother, sketched out their images, and meticulously carved them onto a Plaid wood pallet, readily available from Walmart. The final dimensions measure 11" x 15".
Utilizing Adobe Illustrator, I meticulously designed the football shape, incorporated the motivational phrase "Pray Hard Play Hard," and integrated the iconic Arizona Cardinals logo as a template for the carving process. To finish, I applied a charcoal stain to the wood pallet and used vibrant acrylic colors to add depth and detail.

Team Logo Keepsake Box: DIY with a Cigar Box!

Attention football fans!

Complete your man cave decor with your favorite teams logo on a cigar box. Inspired by my sons love of the Arizona Cardinals football team, I sized their logo in Adobe Illustrator, and printed it out using my inkjet printer. I then sketched out the image before carving it with a Dremel. I found the cigar box at Walmart. I stained the box with charcoal stain then used acrylic paints for the color.
This wooden box measures 8.54" x 8.15" x 1.73" with hinges and a clasp to secure the lid closed.

Craft Your Own Lombardi Trophy: The Ultimate Football Fan DIY Project!

Another exciting DIY project tailored for die-hard football fans!

Constructing the base and post is a breeze using thick cardboard pieces, expertly shaped and secured with wood glue. I repurposed TV cardboard insert scraps, coated them with joint compound, and let them dry to perfection. For the iconic "LVII" letters, I sourced affordable options from Dollar Tree. Utilizing inkjet-printed NFL and Kansas City logos, I employed decoupage techniques for a polished finish. Crafting the miniature stadium was a delight with air dry clay, while the football itself was skillfully whittled from an old potpourri botanical fruit collection. With meticulous detailing and vibrant acrylic paints, the final masterpiece stands tall at approximately 9 inches—a truly perfect gift for any football aficionado!

Bubblegum Machines Just Got A Facelift

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 18:03:00 GMT

Transforming Ordinary Gumball Machines into Creative Wonders: A DIY Journey

Creativity knows no bounds, permeating every aspect of our lives. Imagine transforming a mundane gumball machine into a captivating piece of art that seamlessly integrates into your home décor. If you're drawn to the allure of unique craftsmanship, then here's a guide to infusing personality into an ordinary gum container.

Crafting Memories: A Personalized Adventure Through Time and Terrain

First, seek inspiration. Each gumball machine in the images above was tailor-made with my sons in mind, serving as heartfelt Father's Day gifts that resonate with their individual passions and memories.

Gumball Machine 1: Adventure Theme (Top Image Left)
This adventurous creation was inspired by my eldest son's love for the great outdoors. From our humble beginnings in South Korea [2 & 3], where the allure of nature first captivated him, to our ventures in Fort Ord, California [4], and Fort Leonardwood, Missouri [5 & 6], each location holds a special place in our family's journey. Using a mix of materials like paper towels dipped in wood glue for texture, air dry clay, and acrylic paints, I meticulously recreated scenes from our travels. From the serene landscapes of South Korea to the sun-kissed shores of California, and the tranquil forests of Missouri, every detail was a labor of love. The gumball machine serves as a tangible reminder of our shared adventures, now proudly displayed in his home, evoking cherished memories with every glance.

As we made our way back to Arizona, our journey took us through the breathtaking scenery of Sedona [6], a prelude to our return to the heart of our hometown, Peoria, Arizona. Nestled within its familiar embrace lies Peoria High School, a cornerstone of our family's history and tradition. This institution holds a special place in our hearts—it's where my parents' love story began, where I met the father of my children, and where generations of our family have received their education. Captivated by memories of the school, I embarked on a creative endeavor, sculpting a replica from a photograph using acrylic paints, immortalizing its significance [10 & 11].

Crafting this Adventure Travel themed gumball machine was a nostalgic journey, allowing me to revisit the past and create a cherished memento for my son to share with future generations. With its rustic lantern-inspired top and custom-built money collection drawer, it seamlessly blends into his home décor, eliciting smiles and storytelling sessions with his own family. And what's a gumball machine without its signature treats? A collection of standard-sized gumballs adds the perfect finishing touch, ensuring this unique gift is as delightful as it is sentimental.

Battle-Ready Brilliance: Crafting Call of Duty's Iconic World

Gumball Machine 2: Call of Duty: Modern Warfare Theme (Top image right)
Diving into the realm of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, the inspiration for the second gumball machine was drawn from my youngest son's passion for the game and his role as a dedicated father to my two grandsons. Nestled within his man cave, this gumball machine serves as both a tribute to his gaming prowess and a safeguard against the eager hands of his little ones, ever-ready to deplete its colorful contents (lol). Adorned with a removable Captain Price hat atop, and meticulously detailed with elements inspired by the game, this creation seamlessly integrates into his gaming sanctuary. The backside boasts a custom-built money collection drawer [9], while a stock of standard-sized gumballs, sourced from Amazon, completes the ensemble, earning his enthusiastic approval.

Conceptualizing the design:
Embarking on this creative journey required a familiarization with the intricacies of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare—a realm previously observed but not explored. Delving into research via the game developer's website and various online sources, I sought insight into character preferences and thematic elements. Consulting with my son's girlfriend and my brother, the consensus pointed to the beloved characters of Captain Price and Ghost. Capturing Captain Price's iconic look, I crafted a distinctive hat using a blue shop towel, while relegating Ghost's visage to the rear of the machine—a nod to his imposing presence.

Bringing the COD Scene to Life:

Starting with the foundational base, packing foam [3] was strategically positioned and secured with hot glue, forming the backdrop for the immersive COD experience. Layering paper towels coated in diluted glue, the surface was transformed into a canvas, meticulously painted to emulate the game's desert landscapes. Signage crafted from chopsticks and wooden popsicle sticks, adorned with acrylic-painted motifs, further enriched the visual narrative. [2 & 4] Employing inkjet printing and decoupage techniques, the central logo [6] was seamlessly integrated, while Ghost's haunting silhouette was meticulously traced and painted on the reverse side. [5 & 11]

Crafting Captain Price's Hat and Scarf:
Precision was paramount in recreating Captain Price's signature attire. From measuring the lid's dimensions to sculpting the hat using a blue shop towel dipped in wood glue, each step was executed with care. Shaped and painted with intricate camouflage patterns, the hat and scarf emerged as faithful replicas, adding a touch of authenticity to the ensemble. [11]

List of materials:

Functional Gumball Machine
Unfinished Craft Boards
Packing Foam
Inkjet Printed Images
Chopsticks
Wooden Popsicle Sticks
Heavyweight Cardboard
Modge Podge
Blue Shop Towel
Paper Towels
Toilet Paper
Hot Glue Gun
Glue Sticks
Wood Glue
Chaulk/Acrylic Paints
Gumballs
Small Mini Deco Rocks
Mini Trees

[1]

Not all gumball machines are created equal. Choose a functioning gumball machine which could be found at Hobby Lobby, Amazon or other craft stores.

The Front Label:
To begin, precise measurements of the front area were taken to ensure a perfect fit for the label. Utilizing Adobe Illustrator, I expertly typeset the message, "Surviving Fatherhood One Gumball At A Time," before printing it onto standard copy paper. To achieve an aged appearance, the edges were meticulously torn before being delicately decoupaged onto a thin cheesecloth towel and left to harden [7].

The Dome:
Turning attention to the dome, a multi-step process was employed to imbue it with texture and depth. Layers of paper towels, saturated in wood glue, were carefully applied to create a tactile surface. With each scene in mind, intricate details were painted onto the dome, bringing the envisioned landscapes to life.

The Base:
Given the lightweight nature of the gumball machine, anchoring it to a sturdy base was essential. Beginning with two wooden square planks sourced from Hobby Lobby, construction of the base commenced. Cardboard was skillfully fashioned to form the sides and pullout drawer, ensuring structural integrity. After removing the machine's base, precise outlines were traced onto the wooden board before being meticulously cut out using a utility knife and Dremel tool. Following sanding to eliminate any rough edges, the base was securely affixed to the top wood board using a trusty hot glue gun [3 & 9].