Lovely Play & Recreation

A box made from flyers: practical and stylish ways to fold boxes

Deputy Editor of RAG MUSICsasashina
Deputy Editor of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. I’m Sasashina, a mom currently raising an elementary schooler and a preschooler. During my student years at Kyoto College of Science and Technology, I studied a wide range of fields including sound, lighting, and video technology, building a foundation in comprehensive stage production and creative expression. After graduation, I joined a music production company, where I still work, consistently building experience in production and engaging in a variety of music-centered tasks. Currently, I mainly handle articles for children, drawing on what I’ve learned about parenting and what I feel and discover through daily interactions with my kids. I hope my work can be of help to you, even in a small way!

Are you all making good use of the advertising flyers that end up in your mailbox?

They’re surprisingly handy to have around—you can line the bottom of the trash can to keep it clean, or use them as a mat under drawings and crafts.

In this article, I’ll show you how to fold “boxes” using flyers.

You’ll find folding methods with different shapes and depths to suit your needs, whether you want a disposable trash container or a small storage box.

If you’d like to make better use of flyers, feel free to copy these ideas and give them a try!

Boxes Made from Flyers: Practical and Stylish Box Folding Methods (11–20)

Star-shaped box

[Origami] One A4-ratio sheet! How to fold a cute 3D 'star trinket case'

Star-shaped box

Here’s how to make a cute, three-dimensional star-shaped box.

You might think a star shape looks difficult, but it’s surprisingly easy for anyone to fold.

It’s also nice that you can make it with just a single sheet of paper, like an A4 flyer.

The key is to crease firmly so the star takes shape in the final step.

If you use A4 size, you’ll get a mini box—perfect as a tray for small accessories or keys.

You can also use slightly larger paper, or make it with different patterned flyers, paper, or wrapping paper for a unique and lovely result.

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Small sundries storage box

[Practical Use] Organize neatly with a single A4 sheet: Small Items Storage Box

Small sundries storage box

Here’s how to make a “small items storage box” with a handle.

It’s an amazing box you can make from a single A4 sheet.

It’s great for storing stationery around your desk, and the handle makes it easy to carry! Use slightly thick, stiff paper for best results.

Cut the A4 sheet in half to make two pieces.

If you make two identical boxes and stick them together, you’ll have a box with two storage compartments! By the way, using two A4 sheets will give you a larger box.

It’s useful not only for stationery storage but for many purposes, so give it a try!

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Rectangular Box (Shallow)

Don't just toss flyers in the trash! How to make a convenient storage tray [practical use]

Rectangular Box (Shallow)

How about trying an eco-friendly DIY to make a convenient rectangular storage box using a flyer? You can easily create a storage tray with just an A4-size flyer! It turns into a stylish, shallow box that’s perfect for temporarily holding small items scattered around your desk or for placing on your living room table.

The shallow design makes everything easy to see and quick to grab, which is a nice bonus.

Try making your own original box not only with flyers, but also with pretty patterned wrapping paper or newspaper!

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trash bag

[Newspaper Trash Bin] 20 seconds! Just 4 folds! An easy way to make a trash bag from flyers or newspaper

trash bag

This is a trash bag that can be easily made by folding an advertising flyer or newspaper just four times.

Start with a sheet fully opened and fold 10 cm along the longer side.

Flip the paper over, then fold the left and right sides toward the center.

Next, fold the paper to match the height of the last fold, and your trash bag is complete.

Place the bag in the trash can, pressing down to compact the bottom, and adjust the height to finish.

When adjusting the height of the bag and the can, slowly pull it up and shape it—that’s the trick.

Depending on the size of the flyer, you can make a wide range of trash bags, from small to large.

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a box for putting origami in

How to fold a box for storing origami using A4-size paper or cardstock! Great for temporary storage to keep things tidy [Tsukuru-mon]

a box for putting origami in

Here’s an introduction to a “box for storing origami” that you can make from A4-sized flyers or paper.

It’s a handy box for keeping your child’s origami pieces if they often play with origami, and it’s useful as a temporary holder too! Since it’s not very sturdy, it may not be ideal for long-term storage.

The design makes it easy to put paper in and take it out, while also helping prevent pieces from scattering—an added bonus.

If it’s your first time folding it, marking the reference lines with a marker can make the steps easier to follow.

It’s also recommended to make it together with children who love origami, so please give it a try!

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In conclusion

There were everything from simple boxes you can make easily to stylish ones you’ll want to display.

Most are practical and easy to fold, so it’s handy to make a few and keep them on hand.

Flyers are often A4 size, but if you want to make a larger box, try using bigger flyers or newspaper.