You found an old jewelry box. Maybe it was a gift from when you were a kid. Or you found it at a thrift store. Or it just doesn’t match your style anymore. It sits in a corner, collecting dust.
Before you throw it away, stop. There are many creative and useful things you can do with it. The question of what to do with old jewelry boxes has lots of exciting answers.
This guide will help you. We will show you how to check your box’s condition. We will share ideas for simple new uses and fun makeovers. We will even show you how to recycle it the right way.
First, A 3-Step Assessment
Before starting a project, you should check your jewelry box. This simple three-step plan helps you decide if you should keep it, fix it up, or let it go. This will help you choose the best path for your box.
Step 1: Evaluate the Condition
First, look closely at the box. What is it made of? Is it solid wood, plastic, or pressed wood like MDF? Check the small metal parts like hinges and knobs. Are they in good shape or rusty?
Next, look at the inside lining. Is the velvet or satin torn, stained, or does it smell musty? A quick check will tell you how much work is needed. This is a key step when deciding what to do with old jewelry boxes.
Here is a simple table to help you check your box:
| Part | Condition | Action Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior | Good / Fair / Poor | Clean / Repair / Paint |
| Hinges & Knobs | Good / Fair / Poor | Clean / Tighten / Replace |
| Interior Lining | Good / Fair / Poor | Clean / Remove / Replace |
| Mirror or Glass | Good / Fair / Poor | Clean / Secure / Replace |
Step 2: Consider the Value
Is this box special to your family? Did it belong to a grandparent? Sometimes, a box has sentimental value. This means it holds special memories. This might make it worth fixing, even if it takes more work.
Also, check for a brand name. Some old music boxes, like those made by Reuge, can be worth money. If it feels special or old, it might be worth more than you think.
Step 3: Analyze the Size and Style
Think about the box’s size and shape. Is it a large standing box or a small one for a table? Does its style match your home now? Or would you need to change it completely?
After these three steps, you can choose your path. You can do a quick repurpose, a fun DIY makeover, or decide to let it go.
Quick & Easy Repurposing Ideas
If you want a fast and easy solution, here are some ideas you can do in under an hour. You will not need any major tools for these projects.
- Desk Organizer: The small drawers and slots are perfect for pens, paper clips, sticky notes, and USB drives. It helps clear up a messy desk.
- Entryway Catch-All: Place it near your front door. It’s a great spot to drop keys, loose change, and other small items when you walk in.
- Tea Bag Caddy: If you can remove the small dividers, a jewelry box becomes a lovely caddy for tea bags. You can sort different flavors into the sections.
- Seed Packet Storage: For gardeners, this is a great way to organize seeds. Sort them by plant type or the month you need to plant them.
- Remote Control Hub: A larger, flat jewelry box can finally give all your remotes a home. No more searching under couch cushions.
We turned a flat, wide jewelry box into our “movie night” command center. The top holds the remotes. The drawer is perfect for storing charging cables and spare batteries. It instantly tidied up our coffee table.
The Ultimate DIY Makeover Guide
A DIY makeover can turn your old box into something beautiful and new. Here are the steps and techniques to give it a fresh life. This is a fun answer to the question of what to do with old jewelry boxes.
Prepping Your Box for a New Life
Good prep work is the secret to a great finish. First, clean the box well. Use a soft cloth to wipe away dust. To remove musty smells, let it air out in the sun. Or place a small cup of baking soda inside for a few days.
If you plan to paint, sanding is important. Gently sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper. This helps the new paint stick. After sanding, wipe it clean and apply a coat of primer.
Transformation Technique 1: A Fresh Coat of Paint
Paint is the easiest way to change the look of a box. Chalk paint is a great choice for beginners. It sticks to almost any surface with little prep. Acrylic or milk paint also work well.
Apply one or two thin coats of paint. For a rustic or aged look, you can gently sand the edges after the paint dries. This is called “distressing.” Always finish with a clear sealer to protect the paint.
Transformation Technique 2: Decoupage for Personality
If your box has stains or you just want a unique design, try decoupage. This is a simple technique of gluing decorative paper or fabric onto a surface. You can use scrapbook paper, napkins, or even thin fabric.
Cut the paper to fit. Apply a thin layer of decoupage glue to the box. Press the paper on. Then seal it with another coat of glue on top. The Ultimate Guide to DIY Jewelry Box Makeovers provides excellent inspiration for covering stains and adding color with this method.
Transformation Technique 3: Relining the Interior
A stained or torn lining can make a box look old. Replacing it gives the inside a clean, fresh start. First, carefully pull out the old lining. You may need a small tool to help lift the edges.
For the new lining, you can use felt, new velvet, or even pretty scrapbook paper. Cut the material to size. Use a strong craft glue to secure it in place.
Transformation Technique 4: Upgrading the Hardware
Changing the knobs or handles is a small change with a big impact. It is like putting new buttons on a coat. You can find new knobs at craft stores or home improvement stores. Just unscrew the old ones and screw in the new ones for an instant update.
Beyond the Makeover: 5 Advanced Projects
If you feel creative, you can completely change what the box is used for. Here are five advanced ideas for those wondering what to do with old jewelry boxes.
- Miniature Apothecary Chest: Use the small drawers to store essential oils, craft beads, buttons, or even spices. Add small labels to each drawer.
- Desktop Charging Station: Carefully drill a few holes in the back of the box. You can then run charging cables through them. This creates a tidy spot for your phone and other gadgets.
- Indoor Succulent Planter: Line the drawers with a sheet of plastic to make them waterproof. Add soil and plant small succulents or create a tiny terrarium.
- Artist’s or Writer’s Box: This is a wonderful way to organize pens, paints, brushes, and notecards. It’s a great project to repurpose an old jewelry box into a craft organizer.
- Sentimental Memory Box: Protect precious photos, letters, and keepsakes. Line the box with acid-free paper. This helps preserve old documents and pictures.
These creative ideas to upcycle and transform empty boxes can turn a simple item into a stunning and useful piece for your home.
Letting Go: Sell, Donate, or Recycle
Sometimes, the best decision is to let the box go. If you decide not to keep it, there are responsible ways to pass it on.
Selling Your Box
If the box is in good condition or you have refurbished it, you could sell it. Websites like Etsy are great for vintage or handmade items. Facebook Marketplace and eBay are also good options.
Donating for a Second Life
Many places would be happy to take your old jewelry box. Thrift stores like Goodwill are an easy choice. You could also check with local women’s shelters or community theater groups. They might use them for props.
Responsible Recycling
If the box is broken, you may need to recycle it. First, take the box apart. Separate the metal hinges and knobs from the wood or plastic. Remove any mirrors or glass. Check your local recycling rules to see how to dispose of each part.
Know When It’s Time for an Upgrade
Sometimes, an old box is too damaged to fix. Or your jewelry collection has just gotten too big for it. If you need a new storage solution, it is important to choose one that will protect your items. You want one that will last a long time.
For a wide variety of modern and classic options, exploring a dedicated supplier is a great start. You can find many styles at .
If you have special needs, like a certain size or layout, you might want a custom piece. You can work with a to create the perfect box.
When choosing a new box, pay close attention to the interior. For delicate pieces, look for soft linings. Look for those found in high-quality . Velvet provides a gentle, non-abrasive surface that helps prevent scratches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do you clean the dust and grime off an old wooden jewelry box?
Start with a soft, dry cloth. For tougher dirt, mix a few drops of mild dish soap with water. Dip a cloth in the soapy water and wring it out well. Wipe the wood. Always dry it right away. Use a cotton swab for small, detailed areas.
My old jewelry box has a musty smell. How can I get rid of it?
First, try airing it out in a dry, sunny place for a few hours. If the smell is still there, place an open container of baking soda inside. You can also use activated charcoal or dry coffee grounds. Close the lid for a few days to let it absorb the odor.
Can I paint over the velvet or felt lining inside a jewelry box?
We do not recommend painting the lining. Fabric paint can make the lining stiff. It may crack or flake off over time. For a much better result, it is best to carefully remove the old lining. Replace it with new fabric, felt, or even decorative paper.
Is it worth restoring a truly vintage or antique jewelry box?
It depends. If the box has great personal value or is a true antique, a professional restoration may be a good idea. This protects its value. If it is a common box from a thrift store, a fun DIY makeover is a more practical approach to the question of what to do with old jewelry boxes.
What can I do with the small cardboard jewelry boxes from gift shops?
These small boxes are perfect for organizing drawers. Use them to separate earrings, rings, or office supplies like paper clips and thumbtacks. They are also great for sorting small craft items like beads and buttons. You can reuse them as gift boxes too.
