Discover creative ways to recycle and reuse high-quality packaging boxes. Learn how to turn sturdy product boxes into beautiful gift wrapping or practical stationery storage while creating mindfully and reducing waste.
Introduction
Hi! I’m Martje, the creator behind @martjes.journal. I love journaling, stationery, and finding creative ways to reuse what I already have instead of always buying something new.
Many products — especially stationery and journaling supplies for example from Archer & Olive — come in beautiful, high-quality packaging that feels almost too nice to throw away. With a little creativity, these boxes can be transformed into something new and meaningful.
In this post, I’ll show you how to give old packaging a second life — whether as gift wrapping or stylish storage for your stationery. It’s creative, practical, and a small step toward a more mindful and sustainable lifestyle.
Why You Should Reuse High-Quality Packaging
Not all packaging is meant to be thrown away. Many boxes — such as those from Archer & Olive — are produced with care, sturdy materials, and beautiful designs.
Here’s why reusing packaging makes so much sense:
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High-quality boxes are durable and long-lasting
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They’re already beautiful and easy to personalize
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They’re perfect for storing stickers, papers, and pens
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They work wonderfully as creative gift packaging
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You don’t always need to buy something new — sometimes you already have everything you need
Reusing packaging is not only sustainable, but also deeply satisfying and creatively freeing.
Choosing the Right Boxes
Before you start crafting, collect boxes that feel sturdy and visually appealing. These can be product boxes, shipping boxes with thick cardboard, or packaging with magnetic closures.
Look for boxes that:
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Are stable and not damaged
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Have a neutral or pretty base color
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Feel good to open and close
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Fit your intended purpose (storage or gifting)
Preparing Your Boxes and Supplies
Once you’ve chosen your boxes, gather the supplies you want to decorate them with. I like to lay everything out first so I can see how colors and textures work together.
You might use:
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Stickers and paper scraps
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Washi tape
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Printed photos or labels
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Scissors and glue
I love using my stationery stored in Archer & Olive boxes also I love to use the Sticker and the washi tape to decorate them — they pair beautifully with recycled packaging projects.
Decorating and Assembling Your Boxes
This is the fun part! Start decorating your box slowly and intuitively. Try placing elements without glue first so you can move things around.
You can:
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Add washi tape to edges or lids
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Decorate with stickers or labels
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Keep it minimal or layer multiple elements
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Let the box guide your design
Take your time and enjoy the process — crafting is about being present, not rushing.
Two Beautiful Ways to Use Recycled Packaging
Gift Wrapping with Meaning
A decorated box instantly turns into a thoughtful gift wrap. It feels personal, reusable, and special — perfect for stationery gifts or handmade items.
Stationery Storage
These boxes are ideal for organizing:
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Stickers
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Washi tape
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Paper scraps
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Pens and small tools
They look beautiful on your desk and help keep your creative space tidy.
Final Thoughts
Giving old packaging new life is a reminder that creativity doesn’t always start with buying something new. Sometimes it begins by looking at what you already have with fresh eyes.
With a little imagination, simple boxes can turn into meaningful storage or beautiful gift packaging — and every reused piece is a small win for creativity and sustainability.
If you’d like more journaling and creative inspiration, feel free to visit me on Instagram: @martjes.journal or see this video:
If you want you can use my printable and when you try to decorate old boxes, send me or Archer and Olive a picture :)
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