Cartonboarding: turning cardboard into art and extra income

Cartonboarding: turning cardboard into art and extra income
Robert Rivera

Table of contents

Cardboard crafting is a cardboard crafting technique. You can create decorative and organizer boxes, notebook covers, and even purses. Throughout this article you will find creative ideas, tutorials, tips, and other information.

What is cardboard?

Cardboard is a handicraft technique that enables the creation of several pieces. Gray cardboard is the base item for the confection. Because it is a thicker weight material, the objects produced are very resistant and durable.

Handwork is great for exercising the brain and getting out of the monotony. Furthermore, cardboard can be a source of extra (or main) income, since it enables the creation of several sought-after items, such as birthday and wedding souvenirs, organizer boxes, notebook covers, etc.

Materials required to make cardboard

When you walk into any stationery store, you will probably find all the materials you need to start making cardboard. The technique is not expensive and several objects used in the process are durable. Below, see what to provide:

  • Gray cardboard (also known as gray cardboard or Holler paper);
  • 100% cotton fabrics;
  • White PVA glue;
  • Scissors;
  • Stylus;
  • Rulers for cardboard (templates);
  • Brush or roller to distribute the glue;
  • Spatula to fix the fabric or paper well;
  • Ribbons, buttons, and other decorative elements;
  • Pencil and eraser;
  • Binding folders;
  • Paper punch;
  • Common ruler;
  • Craft paper.

This list is not a rule. With the materials listed, you will be able to create various objects, so, as you get some practice, unleash your creativity and innovate in your decoration. The tutorials below bring other suggestions that can go into your cardboard box.

Cardboard Making Tutorials

Exercising creativity is a great way to take care of your mental health. With cardboard, you will have a little time all to yourself. The tutorials below are practical and easy to reproduce, after all, this moment needs to be fun and stress-free. Check it out!

Cardboard for Beginners

This tutorial is ideal for those who have never had contact with cardboard. With a lot of patience and didactic explanation, the teacher teaches the step-by-step of a beautiful book box - perfect for storing costume jewelry and for presenting to friends. Enjoy the class!

How to create luxury carton box

The video shows how to make a beautiful luxury box using the cardboard method. You will notice that the artisan uses various objects from the technique to facilitate the process. Take note of the tips, because when applying the glue to the paper or fabric, you have to be very careful to fix it without letting it create air bubbles.

How to make an easy carton box

One step at a time! Start by making easy pieces to practice the technique. With this tutorial, you will learn how to make a beautiful cardboard box.

5 simple to make cardboard pieces

In addition to the famous boxes, you can make several items with cardboard. This video teaches the step-by-step of five objects: small clipboard, mini calendar, post-it notes, notepad and bookmark. By the way, this is a very nice kit to sell and earn extra income or to give as a gift!

It is surprising how many items you can create with cardboard! In the next topic, check out some inspirations. This craft is sure to make your days more beautiful.

See_also: 7 types of glass paint that bet on different finishes

50 cartonboard ideas for you to get inspired and do it too

Organizer boxes, notebook covers, birthday and wedding favors - the world of cardboard is far from boring. You can create many beautiful and fun items. Check out some suggestions:

1. it is possible to create many objects with carton

2. from simpler items

3. that do not require much manual knowledge

4. like this Harry Potter inspired kindle cover

5. even more complex parts

6. that require experience in handling the materials

7. how this luxury cardboard

8. with practice, you will become proficient in the technique

9. make pieces to organize your office

10. box to store your earrings, necklaces and bracelets

11. or even to store your glasses!

12. besides having a personalized decoration

13. like this beautiful box set

14. you can earn extra income

15. birthday souvenirs are very much in demand

16. graduation and wedding favors are also big sellers

17. small stationery kits win over teenagers

18. personalized carton is perfect for commemorative dates

19. how this for fathers day

20. a package for the Christmas gift

21. or a box for Easter chocolates

22. colorful fabrics and leaves make the piece more beautiful

23. especially when the textures are different

24. however, it is necessary to respect the harmony of the colors

25. monochromatic pieces look elegant

26. this cardboard is a luxury

27. art with cardboard is amazing

How about this case to organize accessories or make-up?

29. the stylish organization that every kitchen deserves

30. there is no mistake with cardboard

31 Who wouldn't rejoice with a gift like this?

Finish the boxes with a satin bow

33. it makes the composition more graceful

34. beautiful, personalized set for the baby's room

35. cartonage is freedom in manual arts

36. and a very versatile craft

37. a functional cardboard box!

38. paper flowers complemented this composition

39. an amazing gift to spoil the customers

40. explore different colors

41. textures and shapes in your creations

42. you don't have to stick to the model

43. get inspired and create your own versions

44. linen and suede made the drawer drawer sophisticated

45. this fabric created the effect of movement

46. a lasting keepsake for the groomsmen

47. and an educational kit for the trainees

48. fabrics finish the composition with texture and charm

49. but the papers can also add a beautiful touch to the object.

50. an art for everyone!

It is amazing to know that these pieces were made with cardboard, fabric, paper, and glue.

Learn more about this rich handicraft technique

Cartonboarding is a huge universe. The more you learn, the more possibilities arise. Below, check out a selection of videos with tips and information about the technique. You will get to know tools that help facilitate the process, as well as get your questions answered.

Basic cardboard materials and tools

Check out the basic materials and tools to start practicing cardboard. Besides the items already mentioned throughout the article, the artisan presents others that make the process easier.

See_also: 60 stylish and modern office bedroom options

Cartoning with paper or with fabric?

In the previous topic, you saw pieces made with fabric and with paper, but which option is better? In the video, the artisan explains the advantages and application of each material. The choice will depend on several factors, such as finishing or texture.

Which glue to use when creating cardboard?

The video shows which types of glue to use when creating boxes, notebook covers, and bags. If you are working with fabric, you will use one type of glue, if you are working with paper, you will use another.

What are the types of cardboard for making cardboard?

In addition to gray cardboard or gray board, there are other models with different thicknesses used to create boxes. In this video, check out what the options are and the advantages of each one considering the strength and flexibility of the final product.

How to laminate the fabric for durability

Fabric is one of the most commonly used materials when making cardboard, because it provides a beautiful finish. To ensure that the object lasts longer, check out this tutorial that teaches how to laminate the fabric before application.

From a luxury box to a simple notebook cover, the technique doesn't require many materials, all you need to do is get creative! With all the tips and tutorials, you can expand your skills to create other types of decorated boxes




Robert Rivera
Robert Rivera
Robert Rivera is a seasoned interior designer and home decor expert with over a decade of experience in the industry. Born and raised in California, he has always had a passion for design and art, which eventually led him to pursue a degree in interior design from a prestigious design school. With a keen eye for color, texture, and proportion, Robert effortlessly blends different styles and aesthetics to create unique and beautiful living spaces. He is highly knowledgeable in the latest design trends and techniques, and is constantly experimenting with new ideas and concepts to bring life to his clients' homes. As the author of a popular blog on home decor and design, Robert shares his expertise and insights with a large audience of design enthusiasts. His writing is engaging, informative, and easy to follow, making his blog an invaluable resource for anyone looking to spruce up their living space. Whether you're seeking advice on color schemes, furniture arrangement, or DIY home projects, Robert has the tips and tricks you need to create a stylish, welcoming home.