My mom has "requested" a victorian box made from my dad's old ties. She found a pattern of sorts:
http://cqmagonline.com/vol03iss04/ar...62/index.shtml
but it seems too flimsy (cereal box sides and maybe they won't squash the same way). Does anybody know of a similar pattern? I would I appreciate your guidance.

A friend of my mom made just the bottom half like these using a double layer facing inside and out of Christmas cards held together with red or green crochet cotton.
I've also seen them done with yarn on plastic canvas.

Oh WOW, I had been given one of these, it was open at the top, it was made with old Christmas cards, they must have used 2 or more, cuz it was not 'flimsy', and you can always have 'sturdier' cardboard cut just 1/2 inch or so smaller on the inside, how are you going to 'sew' it together?

let us know see photos, plese !!!

Have made something similar and cereal boxes work fine. Stiffer card and you won't get the curve.The final whip stitch is easier if you used a curved upholstry needle.
Love to see a photo when you have finished.
Pippa

Have you checked out heavy interfacing. I have found it in several weights that might hold up better. I would be easier to sew through than cardboard. If you want I can find the exact name.

I made one similiar to this but mine was made on my embroidery machine

I like it.

How about using Timtex or Peltex? WalMart sometimes carries it for about 5 bucks a yard. Some are fusible on one or both sides. It holds up pretty good for fabric bowls.

Lacelady did a tutorial on one. Here it is:

http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-28902-1.htm