DIY Fabric Storage Boxes

Intro: DIY Fabric Storage Boxes

I made these cute fabric covered storage boxes to go in my baby's nursery. 

As a first time mother, I am slightly overwhelmed by the amount of "things" babies seem to need. I am also not the most organized person. My goal is to make it easier on myself by having boxes to grab some things out of instead of having to dig in a drawer. 

To make these you need:
- cardboard boxes
- 2 types of fabric
- white glue
- scissors
- brushes

STEP 1:

I used three matching boxes that I had on hand.   (These happen to be from Swanson Vitamins where I regularly order my supplements from.) I cut out the handles, cut off the top flaps, and cut three pieces of cardboard from a separate box to glue on the bottom (inside).

STEP 2:

I then cut three long strips of the printed fabric to wrap around the outside. I cut the brown fabric for the inside and bottom into individual pieces to fit each side.

I used regular white glue diluted with a bit of water instead of Modge Podge. It is so much cheaper and works just as well. I don't have a specific formula for glue and water, I just mix until the consistency is right for painting. For the printed fabric the ratio seemed to be about 60-70% glue. I used the glue straight for the brown fabric as it was a lot thicker.

I did not paint a layer of glue on top of the fabric as I wanted to keep as much of the soft fabric look and feel as possible.

STEP 3:

I cut the cardboard pieces to insert in the bottom so the bottom is smooth and uninterrupted by the flaps of the box. I used these pieces as the template for the brown fabric pieces for the bottom (outside).

I then glued the bottom cardboard pieces in place.

STEP 4:

Next, I glued the pre-cut brown fabric pieces on the inside. 

A metal ruler really helps tuck the fabric in at the corners!

STEP 5:

I finished the boxes off with a piece of fabric on the bottom.

Overall this is a very simple project that anyone can do. The measuring and cutting can be a bit time consuming but, thankfully, there is no sewing required.

These boxes also double as great cat traps!

Comments

[TeresaR62]

I have covered boxes but I put batting down first then the material. Have to say it was hard but so worth it! Looks so cute!

[UdyRegan]

Boxes are a good storage solution to help you organize your belongings and keep the area neat and tidy. This concept can also be applied while sorting your items up in storage. It helps to promote easy retrieval later on should you need to recover anything at all during your tenure.

[MarkSindone]

I have always wanted to throw away those unutilized cardboard pieces in the garage but now that I have found your instructable, I know just the solution out to get rid of the mess while creating beautiful storage boxes to build something for my kitchen appliances storage. They are now simply lying around aimlessly on the kitchen counter which could be an eyesore since I do not use them regularly and the cabinets are too full with other daily necessities. To be able to conceal them inside a box would definitely be much more convenient.

[Thejesterqueen]

Yay!! I have tons of boxes and fabric and really no storage! Now I know what I'm going to do with them. I can make these with lids to fit under the beds and store myself silly.lol. Thank you so much!!

[Rose E]

I love this! I'm going to use some old clothes for the fabric, since it's for my closet. Thanks!

[ericbosloor]

I think the storage boxes work fine without having to go through upholstery haha! But that's just my opinion as a lazy man who doesn't know two hoots about design haha.

[HarleyMaiden]

I would open the handles on the sides for easy carrying, plus these would be awesome in walk in closets!

[lovingit411]

May i use you idea for my project.Im making a craft book and i think this would look really good in it. But i have to have your permission to do it first since it is you idea.

[linlind25]

I been wanting to do this. I want to make some for under the coffee table to hide all my junk lol

[DeanAshby]

These storage boxes are really pretty and look like they are easy to make too. That is what I like about things that you DIY. You are able to customize them according to your needs and preferences. Whenever you think you need a change of color, you simply change it instead of having to purchase an entirely new one. These little storage boxes are perfect for the knicks knacks you find lying all around the house like keys, remote control, coins and many others.

[angelfoley]

Love it--especially with the cat!--Looks just like mine. I have boxes that held 10 reams of paper--will give it a try!

[DeanAshby]

I love how simple cardboard boxes can be turn into storage boxes of art! You certainly have a flair for the handicraft. The best thing about this idea is how cheap and eco-friendly it is! You have given me a great idea to decorate my home office. I have loads of files that definitely need some good storage and I hate the idea of generic (and ugly) plastic boxes. Thank you so much!

[DeanAshby]

Thank you for the tips and for showing us how to do it step by step. I have used colorful fabric to match the rooms where these storage boxes would go. I have also used some slip-resistant material at the bottom to keep the boxes from slipping, since some of these are used for storage of delicate items. I don’t want someone to push it accidentally, and the items inside get scratches or broken. Great job for teaching us this in just easy and simple steps.

[kirnex]

They turned out great! The fabric is awesome, too. Thanks for sharing.

[ellajane]

This is incredible! How creative! I think this idea would make a great gift for my sister. There are some fabric stores in Philadelphia that I have been meaning to look at for another project I'm working on but I will definitely look for some matching fabric for this project. Is there a specific fabric you have found that works the best? Thanks for the instructions!

[laxcatcreations]

Thank you! Mine have proven to be very useful, I'm sure they would make a great gift. I found that the thinner material works best. The felt/ fleece type thing that I used on the inside worked but I had to use straight glue and I had to use quite a bit.

[rwntylr]

I can't wait to do this! I will make an extra for a cat trap, too. :)

[dmccomb]

Gorgeous boxes! (and gorgeous cat!)

I just happen to be accumulating some good sized boxes, and was wondering what to do with them. I think I see a trip to the fabric store in my future.