How to turn an empty shoe box into a practical organiser

An empty shoe box can be given a new purpose before it is thrown away. With a covering, a few dividers and some planning, it can become an organiser for accessories, documents, office supplies or the small items that so often end up scattered around the home.

How can you turn a shoe box into an organiser?

First, clean the box and make sure the cardboard is still sturdy. Next, select self-adhesive paper, fabric, wrapping paper or another suitable material to cover the outside and give it a neater finish.

You can cover the inside of both the lid and the box as well. To prevent unnecessary bulk, trim the material to the required size and carefully fold it around the corners before securing it in place.

How do you make dividers inside the shoe box?

The dividers can be made from pieces of cardboard taken from other packaging. Cut strips to the preferred height, then make small slots so that the pieces can interlock inside the box.

You could also create compartments in different sizes, according to the items you intend to store. Smaller sections are useful for earrings, hair clips and other accessories, whereas larger spaces can hold documents, cables or everyday items.

What can be stored in this organiser?

The shoe box can be adapted to suit a range of needs. Inside a drawer, for instance, it can keep together small accessories that would otherwise be loose and difficult to find.

It can also be used to organise papers, cards, office supplies, cables and small objects. Avoid placing overly heavy items inside, as shoe-box cardboard was not originally designed to carry substantial weight.

How can you make the shoe box more attractive and durable?

As well as adding a covering, you can attach labels to identify the contents and make organisation easier. Different colours and patterns can also help separate categories when several boxes are used together.

If the box will be kept in a frequently used area, reinforcing its sides and base with extra cardboard can make it more durable. This way, packaging that would have gone in the bin can serve a practical purpose while helping to keep small items organised.