Don’t Toss Those Lens Boxes! Try These Creative DIY Ideas Instead

Do you have a stack of unused lens boxes just gathering dust? Instead of throwing them away, why not transform them into something both practical and stylish? With a touch of creativity and a few simple supplies, you can turn those old boxes into unique items that add flair to your home. Here are two easy and attractive DIY projects to give those lens boxes a new purpose.

1. Rustic Stone-Effect Storage Box

This stone-effect storage box is perfect for organizing small items like crochet hooks, hairpins, or even jewelry. The faux stone finish adds a rustic charm that can elevate any room’s decor.

Materials Needed:

• Old lens box
• Egg carton
• White glue
• Light grey and dark grey PVA paint
• Clear varnish
• Small iron feet or any other material to use as feet
• Artificial leaves and an artificial rose for decoration

Steps to Create a Stone-Effect Box:

1. Prepare the Base:
   • Start by tearing up an egg carton into small pieces. Place these pieces into a mixing bowl and add white glue, stirring until you achieve a thick paste. This mixture will create a textured stone-like appearance on your lens box.
   • Apply this paste generously to the outer surface of the lens box, covering it completely. Leave it to dry until it’s hardened. This step helps create the rugged, rocky surface.
2. Apply the Paint:
   • Once the egg carton paste has fully dried, it’s time to add color. Begin by coating the box with light grey PVA paint. This base color will serve as the underlying stone shade. Allow it to dry thoroughly.
   • Next, use a sponge dipped in dark grey PVA paint to dab over the light grey surface. This sponging technique will give your box a natural stone effect, enhancing the rugged, textured appearance. Let it dry completely.
3. Seal with Varnish:
   • Apply a coat of clear varnish to protect your paint and give the box a glossy, polished finish. Varnish not only adds durability but also makes the stone effect stand out more vibrantly.
4. Add Feet and Decorations:
   • Attach small iron feet or any other stable base to the bottom of the box. This not only adds height but also makes it easier to display the box on any surface.
   • For a final touch, glue artificial leaves and a small rose to the top of the box lid, adding a delicate contrast to the rustic stone look.

2. Elegant Sequin Storage Box for Small Treasures

For those who love a bit of sparkle, this sequin-covered box is a beautiful way to store jewelry or other small treasures. With its shiny, glamorous look, this box can serve as a lovely display piece in any room.

Materials Needed:

• Old eyeglasses case
• Gold sequin tape
• Hot glue gun
• Small plastic Christmas balls (to use as feet)
• Metal ball or similar embellishment for the case’s front
• Cotton and acetone (for cleaning)

Steps to Make a Sequin-Covered Box:

1. Prepare the Case:
   • Before applying the sequins, clean the eyeglasses case thoroughly. Soak a cotton ball in acetone and wipe down the case’s surface to remove any dust or grease. This step is crucial for ensuring that the glue sticks properly to the case.
2. Cover with Sequin Tape:
   • Once the case is dry, begin applying the gold sequin tape. Using the hot glue gun, work in small sections, applying glue and pressing the sequin tape firmly into place. Continue until the entire exterior of the case is covered in sequins.
3. Add Feet and Embellishments:
   • Glue small plastic Christmas balls to the bottom of the case as “feet” to add stability and a bit of height.
   • Attach a decorative metal ball or similar embellishment to the front of the case. This little detail adds an extra layer of sophistication to the design.
4. Finishing Touches:
   • Double-check that all sequins are securely attached, and adjust any loose areas if needed. Ensure your decorations are stable and neatly arranged, giving your box a flawless finish.

Additional Creative Uses for Lens Boxes

If you’re still left with more lens boxes after these projects, don’t worry—there are plenty of other ways to use them! Here are a few more ideas to spark your creativity:

• Miniature Travel Containers: Lens boxes are great for holding small amounts of lotion, creams, or even pills when traveling. Their compact size makes them easy to carry, and they keep liquids and items organized without taking up much space.
• Tiny Planters for Succulents: For plant lovers, turn your old lens boxes into adorable mini planters for succulents or cacti. With just a little bit of soil and a small plant, you’ll have a cute, low-maintenance decor item for your windowsill.
• Button and Pin Organizers: Keep small sewing supplies like buttons, pins, or needles in lens boxes. These boxes make it easy to organize and access the items, and they’re easy to label if you need multiple boxes.
• Emergency Kits: Create tiny first-aid kits by storing band-aids, cotton balls, and antiseptic wipes in these boxes. Slip one into your purse or glove compartment for quick access on the go.

Why Repurposing Matters

Repurposing items like lens boxes not only helps reduce waste but also encourages creativity. By finding new uses for everyday objects, you’re helping to make a positive impact on the environment while also adding a personal touch to your home. Plus, these projects are budget-friendly and can be a fun, hands-on activity for the whole family.

As the saying goes, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” By giving a new life to your unused lens boxes, you’re creating something beautiful and functional. So next time you’re about to throw out a lens box, think twice—grab some glue, paint, and a few other supplies, and let your creativity run wild!