Used Shipping Boxes => Bookcase, drawer, stand, or small side table
by
Tiffany B.
+18
I have accumulated a lot of Amazon boxes during this pandemic and would really appreciate some *simple, beginner level upcycling ideas/instructions for things I could use around my small apartment...
I desperately need bookcase(s) for my books (I❤books) that are currently boxed, and that's my highest interest. I'm currently teleworking, and my preteen has virtual school. I have many arts & crafts and extra school supplies that could use their own space.
Additionally, we don't have a chest of drawers or any kind of similar furniture in the bedroom; we only have our closet. It would be nice to have some better way to organize our belongings that cannot be placed on a hanger.
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I have a neighbor who used his old cardboard boxes and dog food sacks under gravel as a poor man's weed barrier. Has worked fine over the past decade.
Hello painting and crafting with cardboard seems to be an interesting concept. Heres a link. I know I wish to try it.
https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwiK6LHN3qvsAhV4l3IEHSwaAK0QFjAnegQIJBAC&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pinterest.com%2Fknw5170%2Fcardboard-painting%2F&usg=AOvVaw3jE-suJ3uJz7ysMIfQfj64
https://salvagedliving.com/diy-fall-mantel-decor-idea-feathers-and-vintage-finds/
You could make some shelves but I honestly can't see them being very sturdy. https://homelyeconomics.com/cardboard-box-shelves/
Hi.
Use the boxes as bookcases! If they are strong enough on their own. Stack largest at the bottom and work up , if not double them up (one inside another) Cut them down as required. Use the bottom of the boxes as the back of bookcases.
Hi Tiffany, here's a few beautiful cardboard storage ideas you can try - https://www.hometalk.com/diy/decorate/rooms/s-10-free-storage-ideas-using-cardboard-boxes-19237282
Keep in mind that this type of shipping cardboard contains glue and is treated to be water resistant. Sooner or later it is going to start smelling and the odour will transfer on to any fabric, paper, or porous material that is being stored inside or next to the cardboard surfaces.
You could cover them in pretty contact paper - this will also reinforce them. Then stack them for storage.
Here is a place to start: https://morningchores.com/cardboard-furniture/
I wrote a post of things I created that might help you - https://chascrazycreations.com/things-cardboard-box/
There are some ideas here:
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/481463016393778686/
WE take our cardboard to the recycling center. However, boxes can store a lot of stuff you want to keep and hide.
Most of the boxes are not sturdy enough to use as drawers, bookcase or tables unless you reinforce them or double them. Here are repurpose ideas for you boxes
https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/12-brilliant-ways-to-reuse-cardboard-boxes/#:~:text=Dispenser%20Box,time%20as%20you%20need%20it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nd5EDH1an8w
Also, many food banks will take some of the boxes to use for food.
I would go to a thrift store to get a bookshelf. Then do something like this:
https://www.hometalk.com/diy/organize/storage-ideas/easy-diy-boxes-13465655
Easy DIY Boxes
Check out this link, which links you to others as well. Plus, you can make decorative storage out of boxes by covering them with cloth, gift wrap, etc.
https://blog.customboxesnow.com/low-impact-living-a-guide-to-cardboard-furniture/
Hi Tiffany, you can make fabulous looking furniture with boxes! Hope these couple of videos help you out!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8jpJaKmjYEc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZR1Rmk2r-3U
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OPX6Vmhn6JI
I have covered some boxes with contact paper and stacked for toy storage. That might work and add a bit of luan plywood for things you want to be sturdier.
Thanks guys for sharing ideas