An empty box becomes a toy! A collection of ideas for handmade toys
Don’t you find yourself surrounded by empty boxes—like tissue boxes or candy boxes—before you know it?
It feels like such a waste to just crush them and throw them away!
This time, we’re introducing easy, handmade toys you can make using those empty boxes.
Boxes come in all kinds of shapes, so we’ve gathered a wide range of DIY toy ideas—from unique toys that make the most of each box’s shape to games you can really get absorbed in.
Take a look and see which ones you can make with the empty boxes you have at home!
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Empty Boxes Turn into Toys! A Collection of Handmade Toy Ideas (21–30)
Empty Can Tambourine
Let me share an idea for making tambourines out of empty cans and boxes.
What you’ll need: empty cans or boxes from snacks, double-sided tape or glue, parts made from construction paper, and decorative materials.
Have you ever thrown away a round cookie tin or an empty cheese box thinking it might be useful for something? Why not try making a tambourine that’s fun to create and delightful to play, together with your child! The step where you freely stick the parts together is exciting for both kids and adults.
Give it a try!
Cardboard mini car case

Even tidying up is simple! Here’s an idea for a cardboard mini car case.
Many kids love toy cars like mini cars, don’t they? This idea is perfect if you’re thinking, “I want to make a road for cars to drive on and give it as a gift,” or “I’d be happy if it’s easy to take toys in and out.” It’s unique because when you open the storage case for the mini cars, it transforms into a townscape with roads.
Adding a handle makes it easy to carry, which is a nice bonus.
Definitely give it a try!
Tambourine you can make with things at home

Here’s an idea for making a tambourine using items you have at home.
You’ll need a round container from a six-piece cheese pack, jingle bells, string, animal-themed templates, colored construction paper, origami paper, scissors, and glue or double-sided tape.
Even if children don’t recognize it as a musical instrument, this works as a special sound-making toy that infants can enjoy.
The cute animal motifs will spark children’s interest and curiosity.
Let’s make sounds freely and have fun playing along with music and rhythm!
In conclusion
How was it? This time, we introduced lots of ideas for toys you can make with boxes. It’s surprising that you can even make games, musical instruments, and cars out of boxes, isn’t it? Since you can create all kinds of toys, be sure to try making some using empty boxes you have at home!


