A simple upcycling project turning discarded tape rolls into useful storage
This project transforms the cardboard centre from a used roll of tape into a small decorative container. It’s a practical example of upcycling — taking a material that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something useful and personal.
The finished container is ideal for storing small items such as earrings, beads, or desk supplies, and the design can be easily adapted using whatever paper and embellishments you have on hand.
Presented by: Crafty Corner
Skill level: Beginner
Age suitability: 6+ with adult supervision
Supervision note: Uses scissors and glue; supervision recommended for younger children
Materials and tools
- Cardboard centre from a roll of tape
- Double-sided tape
- Clear-drying glue
- Scrap paper
- Chipboard
- Embellishments (chipboard shapes, ribbon, flowers, etc.)
Before starting, make sure the cardboard roll is clean and free of leftover tape or adhesive.
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1: Paint the cardboard roll
Paint the inside of the cardboard roll and set it aside to dry completely. This helps seal the surface and gives the container a neat, finished look.
Step 2: Cut the base
Cut a circle from chipboard that is slightly larger than the diameter of the cardboard roll. This will form the base of your container.
Step 3: Cover the base
Cover the chipboard circle with paper using double-sided tape. Press it down firmly to avoid bubbles or lifting edges.
Step 4: Cover the cardboard roll
Measure the width of the cardboard roll and cut a strip of paper to match. Use double-sided tape to wrap the paper neatly around the outside of the roll.
Line up the paper join carefully, as this will become the back of the container.
Step 5: Attach the roll to the base
Apply clear-drying glue to the bottom edge of the cardboard roll and place it in the centre of the covered base.
Use an earbud or cotton swab to remove any excess glue before it dries.
Step 6: Add embellishments
Decorate the container using your chosen embellishments. In this example, a chipboard shape was placed over the paper join, with ribbon and flowers added for extra detail.
Use glue or double-sided tape depending on the weight of the embellishments.
Step 7: Final result
Allow everything to dry fully. Your recycled cardboard roll container is now complete and ready to use.
