Here is a lesson idea that was listed in Riverdeep Newsletter:
Treasure Boxes:
http://www.kid-at-art.com/htdoc/lesson26.html
These can use scrap foam core board from the frame shops. You can make
them any size. It would be a good lesson to tie in Russian and French
art/craft. I can think of many ways these could be decorated/finished
- even paper mached.
For younger students, you will have to do the cutting of the foam core
to make the box.