Trainee interior design students in Kent unearthed a treasure trove of techniques by designing their own jewellery boxes. The part-time learners studying for a certificate in creative techniques at Mid Kent College created the boxes to help them visualise and experiment with different colour techniques. Janet Lowther, 57, and from Maidstone, said: “It’s a lot more beneficial to apply paint effects to a jewellery box than it is just looking at them on a piece of paper. “I enjoyed learning about the effects but I couldn’t see myself using them at first. Designing these jewellery boxes has helped me discover ways I could use the effects in my house.” Lecturer Elaine Bentley said she was delighted with the work produced. She added: “I’m amazed by the quality of the boxes – they’re wonderful. “This project was all about taking a concept and seeing how far you can go with it. “I think we all underestimate our ability to come up with new designs, so this was a way of opening my students’ eyes and showing them what they are capable of.”