Renovations create a lot of waste in terms of old materials and packaging from the new ones. Everything that is in good shape can be donated for reuse and packaging can be recycled. Still, breaking down cardboard to use again takes a lot of energy use. Frequently, I offer larger boxes to neighbors who are moving by posting on NextDoor, but the smaller ones go into the recycling bin.

Last week, after replacing three outdoor lights and three thermostats, I found myself with six sturdy small boxes, and had another idea for recycling. I’m always on the look out for great toys for my house that my grandchildren don’t have at home, and they don’t have the oversized cardboard blocks big enough to make a child sized castle with. Starting with the six boxes I had, I decided to learn how to make big building blocks from boxes. It was fun and easy, and I know it won’t be long until we have a whole set.

How to Make Big Building Blocks From Boxes

Here are the steps:

1. Collect some boxes.

2. Gather your supplies: Tape, Mod Podge, wide container to pour Mod Podge into, scissors, paper cutter, brush, paper cutter.

3. Tape down any rough edges or loose edges on the boxes.

4. Find the paper you want to use. I used magazine and catalog covers, postcards, and greeting cards. If you don’t mind some wrinkling, you can use magazine pages. If you want perfection, use heavier papers and test for wrinkling.

5. Cut pieces to fit the box using scissors and a paper cutter. Use single pieces or create a collage.

6. Use Modpodge to glue the pieces down and add more Modpodge to cover the paper with a protective layer. Use the brush to smooth the paper.

Pay special attention to loose edges and corners so that the paper won’t come loose with play.

7. Let the Modpodge dry and you have sturdy blocks. When you have enough, the kids can build a playhouse!

More ideas

Blocks can also be covered with craft paper, paper grocery bags, leftover wall paper, leftover shelf paper, calendars, maps, children’s drawings, or fabric. In the spirit of recycling just try to use what you have.

Less sturdy boxes can be reinforced by stuffing them with paper or packing materials.