1. It`s important to remove any traces of paint or rust before you start decorating the box. You can do this using wire wool. Use only a very fine grade (000) wire wool to avoid scratching the surface of the metal.

2. If deposit of paint remain, use a chemical paint stripper, such as Nitromors, on the stubborn areas. If spots of rust remain, apply rust remover with a small, clean paintbrush. Jenolite, a rust remover that comes in gel form, is ideal. With both of these products, always wear rubber gloves and follow the manufacturer`s instructions carefully. Once the stripper or remover has been given time to work, clean up the surface of the box using fine wire wool.

3. Give the box two base coats of emulsion in the colour of your choice, using criss-cross strokes to give an aged look. When the paint is completely dry, apply a layer of antique glaze.

4. Wrapping paper and pictures from magazines are both suitable for decoupage. Choose your designs, then cut them out carefully using scissors or a scalpel. Stick to one design theme, such as fruits or flowers, for the most effective result.

5. Arrange the cut-outs in the box to decide how you want them to look. The overall design will work best if it has a central focal point.

6. Pour some white craft glue (from art shops) into a bowl and dilute with water to form a thin cream. Place your cut-outs face down on a clean work surface and paint the back of each with glue, using a small, clean paintbrush.

7. Lift the cut-outs carefully and position them on the box. Smooth them down with a sponge, checking that there are no bubbles under the paper.

8. When the glue is dry, wipe away any excess using a clean, damp sponge. Leave the box to dry for 24 hours. Don`t varnish over the top before the glue is fully dry, as wet patches will show through.

9. To varnish, make sure the brush isn`t too heavily loaded. Apply two coats evenly all over, allowing the first to dry before starting on the second.

10. Next apply the craqueleur, which comes in two bottles. First paint on the oil-based varnish and leave to dry until the surface is tacky. Paint the water-based varnish on top to produce an attractive crackled effect.

11. Apply one more coat of antique glaze and allow to dry. Finally, to achieve a lovely shiny finish, you need to add about 20 coats of varnish. It`s time consuming, but the results are beautiful.

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