If you love thrifting and want to give new life to old items, this Thrifted Book Boxes DIY project is for you! I recently came across a set of thrifted book boxes at Goodwill and transformed them into chic storage pieces using fabric and zebra hide scraps. Not only did this simple craft project result in unique, stylish decor, but it was also incredibly affordable.

In this post, I’ll guide you through the process of upcycling thrifted book boxes into high-end storage solutions for your home. Whether you’re into rustic, neutral tones or love the bold appeal of animal print, this easy DIY is a fun way to customize your storage while adding flair to your space.

Why Thrifted Book Boxes Are a Great Find

Thrifted book boxes can be easily overlooked, but they offer so much potential for DIY projects. They often come in a variety of sizes and designs, making them versatile for different storage needs. I found three thrifted book boxes at Goodwill that stacked together perfectly, which was an ideal base for my project. These boxes aren’t just for show—they’re practical too! You can use them to store anything from small electronics to craft supplies.

Thrift stores like Goodwill are full of these hidden gems. By repurposing them, you get functional storage with a designer look at a fraction of the cost.

Materials You’ll Need for This DIY Project

To get started, here’s a list of what you’ll need. You can shop by clicking on the bold type wording.

• Thrifted Book Boxes (Look for varying sizes that stack well) I also found a set of 6 here.
• Neutral Linen-like Fabric (A simple, textured fabric to keep the look elegant)
• Zebra Hide Scraps (This is optional but adds an exotic touch)
• Mod Podge (For adhering fabric, or use diluted Elmer’s Glue)
• Paintbrush (To apply glue)
• Hot Glue Gun (For securing fabric and zebra hide scraps)
• Scissors (For trimming fabric)
• Measuring Tape (Optional, but helpful for precise cuts)

Simple Instructions for Upcycling Book Boxes

Step 1: Select Your Thrifted Book Boxes

Your first task is to find the perfect thrifted book boxes. I found three boxes in different sizes at Goodwill, and they stacked together perfectly to create a cohesive set. When you’re hunting for book boxes, look for sturdy ones that have clean, smooth surfaces for easier fabric adhesion.

Step 2: Measure and Cut Your Fabric

Once you’ve selected your thrifted book boxes, the next step is to cover them with fabric. I chose a neutral linen-like fabric because it has a timeless, natural texture that pairs well with almost any decor style.

Use a measuring tape to measure the height and length of each book box. Cut the fabric to size, leaving a little extra around the edges to wrap around the box neatly. Make sure the fabric is large enough to cover the top, sides, and bottom of the box.

Step 3: Adhere the Fabric to the Book Boxes

To apply the fabric to the boxes, I used Mod Podge, but you can also use diluted Elmer’s Glue if that’s what you have on hand. Using a paintbrush, apply a thin layer of glue to the top surface of the box, making sure to cover it evenly. Then, gently press the fabric onto the box, smoothing out any wrinkles or air bubbles.

Once the fabric is in place, fold the excess fabric over the edges of the box. Trim any excess fabric and fold it neatly under the box. For extra durability, brush another thin layer of Mod Podge over the fabric. Be sure to use matte Mod Podge to avoid any sheen.

Step 4: Hide the Spines with Zebra Hide Scraps

While working on my thrifted book boxes, I realized that the old spines still had visible text. At first, I didn’t mind, but as I went along, I wanted the boxes to look even more polished. That’s when I decided to use scraps of zebra hide rug I had left over from a previous project.

I hot-glued small pieces of zebra hide over the spines of the boxes. The brown and white patterns added a unique, exotic look that completely transformed the boxes. This was a happy accident, as I couldn’t imagine the boxes without the zebra hide now! The fabric alone gave the boxes a sophisticated look, but the zebra hide really took them to the next level.

Step 5: Stack and Style Your New Book Boxes

Once the Mod Podge has fully dried, you’re ready to stack your thrifted book boxes. The great thing about these boxes is that you can arrange them in various ways to create visual interest in your space. I stacked mine in a slightly offset pattern to add dimension, but you can experiment with different configurations depending on where you plan to use them.

These upcycled book boxes look amazing on bookshelves, coffee tables, or nightstands. They’re also perfect for organizing small items like remotes, stationery, or jewelry.

Why This Thrifted Book Boxes DIY is Worth Trying

This project is a fantastic way to upcycle thrifted book boxes into something beautiful and functional. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it also offers a chance to get creative with materials. The combination of fabric and zebra hide adds a unique touch, making these boxes look high-end without the high price tag.

If you love the idea of customizing your home decor while keeping costs low, this is the perfect DIY project. Plus, it’s easy to adapt depending on your personal style. Want a more rustic look? Use burlap. Prefer a modern touch? Try geometric patterns or a pop of color.

If you’ve been looking for an easy and creative DIY project that adds personality to your home decor, this thrifted book boxes makeover is a must-try! It’s a simple yet stunning way to repurpose secondhand items and create something functional and stylish. Happy crafting! If you would like to see more of my DIY projects, click right here!

Pinning is a great way to save these creative ideas for later inspiration! Simply hover over any image and save it to your boards!