Uses for Matchboxes

November 27, 2012


Uses for Matchboxes
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    Matchboxes are the perfect small boxes to save. Large or small, they just beg to be recycled into something fun. Not sure what to save matchboxes for? We've collected some great ideas for reusing them.

By Heather Mann

15 Ways to Reuse Matchboxes

  1. Decorate a matchbox with a scrap of pretty paper to use as a tiny gift box, perfect for holding jewelry.
  1. Place a few pieces of candy inside a matchbox for a convenient gift container.
  1. Transform a small matchbox into a holiday ornament. Place a photo of your loved ones inside the box for a sweet surprise.

Tip: Don't forget to add the date to the bottom of the ornament. This can turn into a fun holiday craft tradition year after year.

  1. Put together a tiny portable sewing kit—just a needle and some thread wrapped around a small scrap of cardboard should do the trick.
  1. Store small batteries inside matchboxes and keep them in your desk, purse or drawers for easy access.

Quick Tip

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  1. Tuck your favorite tea bag inside a matchbox to keep it clean inside your purse.
  1. Use matchboxes to store small amounts of office supplies—rubber bands in one, paper clips in another, etc.
  1. Create a pocket shrine to inspire you. Whether you want to think about living a long life, being happier or being kind to those around you, a pocket shrine will help remind you. Decorate the inside of the matchbox with your chosen theme, and images that remind you of that idea. Decorate the outside of the matchbox to complement your inspirational message. Carry it around with you in your purse (or pocket) or set it on your dressing table or desk at work.
  1. Stack and glue three small matchboxes together, then cover with paper to make a mini chest of drawers. Perfect for storing small items like beads, buttons or stickers.
  1. Use 24 boxes stacked up as a tree to create a holiday countdown calendar. Tuck a small trinket, prize or piece of candy in each box.
  1. Turn matchboxes into tiny toys. Glue buttons to the sides of a painted matchbox, and glue half a matchbox to the top to make a car. For an airplane, glue a craft stick across a matchbox, then paint it to resemble an airplane.
  1. Cover a matchbox with fabric, and insert a tiny fabric scrap blanket and pillow to create a small doll bed.
  1. Cut out the side of the matchbox cover and make a tiny diorama inside the matchbox.
  1. Let a child decorate the matchbox with paint and stickers to create a keepsake box for their lost teeth. The tooth fairy will love it!
  1. Make a tiny first aid kit for your purse. Add a few adhesive bandages and a small tube of antibiotic ointment.

Heather Mann is chief editor of Dollar Store Crafts, and specializes in transforming inexpensive materials into stylish and simple craft projects. She has appeared on the Martha Stewart Show and been featured in Reader’s Digest and the New York Times, and her work has appeared on the cover of Family Fun Magazine.

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