What can you do with shoe boxes?

Few packaging containers can be reused as easily as shoe boxes . They should never be thrown away because it takes very little, including a modicum of practicality, to ensure shoe boxes can be reused in so many ways: first and foremost as containers, to be placed in closets, for underwear, socks, belts, scarves. But shoe boxes , with the magical touch of creative recycling , are also invaluable for transforming them into desk organizers, document holders, and even picture frames.

Jewel case

By removing the lid and adding inserts like the ones you see above, the old shoe box becomes a convenient jewelry box . You can keep necklaces, bracelets, and earrings organized and at a glance. All at minimal expense.

Container for nail polish and cosmetics

Take a box, decorate the outside with wrapping paper or recycled fabric scraps, and then put all your makeup or manicure supplies inside: you'll have everything at hand without the risk of losing it.

Pen

In addition to a shoe box, get some cardboard tubes, like those used to make toilet paper rolls , and glue them inside the box. Then decorate or paint the outside as you like, and you'll have a perfect pen or tool holder, perfect for giving as a gift to friends.

Container for tapes

Take a large box and punch holes along one of the long sides through which you'll thread the strips of colored ribbon , keeping them organized. Or, simply place them inside as is: you'll never have to search for them again in drawers.

Desk organizer

A shoebox lid can also be a useful desk organizer : cut strips of cardboard from the box and tape them to the lid to create compartments. It's that simple.

Gift box

Another simple but effective way to creatively recycle shoe boxes is to turn them into gift wrapping . You can leave them plain if they're made of uncolored cardboard. Simply tie a bow or ribbon around the box. If the shoe brand is printed on them, you can line them with decorative paper.

Doll's trunk

Inside a shoebox, worked vertically or horizontally, you can create the space for a dollhouse . Simply build furniture and accessories using cardboard or small pieces of wood, and the house is ready.

Cable carrier

Place your cell phone and electronic device cables inside a shoebox and then drill holes in it to pass them through: this project will organize your cables and wires without the risk of creating a mess.

Frames

By cutting out a frame from the lid or bottom of the box , you can decorate it by gluing appliques, buttons, sequins and transforming it into an extremely original and colorful photo holder.

Container for Christmas balls and decorations

If, when it's time to store your Christmas tree ornaments , you realize you've lost their original packaging, don't worry. Simply place them in an old shoe box, writing the contents on the outside. They're more durable than the classic clear plastic tubes they come in, so you don't have to worry about them getting damaged.

Read also:

• How to recycle cardboard boxes
• Recycling Tea Caddy: 10 Ideas
• Pasta and Cereal Boxes: 10 Ideas for Recycling Them

Cover photo by Philippe Murray-Pietsch on Unsplash