"The littler the better" is the philosophy of these presents -- and it's easy to make a bunch quickly. Kids can give them to friends and classmates, adding a small treat, such as a holiday note, candy, or trinket.
Matchboxes are available in bulk at grocery or discount stores. For a standard-size matchbox, cut a 33/4-by-2-inch band of decorative paper. Glue band around box; you can attach more paper to box ends. Embellish with string, stickers, or a thin strip of paper glued around box.
To make a card to go inside, cut a 2-by-21/2-inch piece of paper; trim edges with pinking shears, if desired, and fold in half.
Matchbox Gifts
Martha Stewart Kids, Holiday 2003
I found these boxes empty and cheap at papermart.com . No need to buy matches and waste them.
If you'll be recycling used matchboxes for this project, plan ahead. The boxes will need to be aired out for awhile because they usually retain a strong sulfur/chemical smell from the matches. You can buy blank, unused match boxes (without the sulfur smell) online at several craft supply sites for a reasonable price ... but, personally, I find old, used matchboxes a lot more interesting.