How to Make a Cardboard Vase: Easy DIY Recycled Craft
Learn to make a unique cardboard vase with this easy DIY guide. No printer needed! Create a beautiful, recycled craft for your home decor or as a handmade gift. Perfect for paper mache.
What You'll Need
- Cardboard (sturdy, clean pieces from boxes or packaging)
- Notepaper or graph paper (for template)
- Strong adhesive (PVA glue, craft glue, or hot glue sticks)
- Pencil or marker
- Ruler
- Craft knife or sturdy scissors
- Cutting mat (essential if using craft knife)
- Clips or masking tape (optional, for holding pieces while glue dries)
This project is medium difficulty due to precision cutting and assembly. Expect 2-4 hours. You'll create a sturdy vase from recycled cardboard using a hand-drawn template.
Step 1: Prepare Your Cardboard
Flatten cardboard boxes and remove tape or labels. Cut into manageable, flat sheets. Ensure pieces are clean and sturdy.
Step 2: Create Your Notepaper Template
Tape several sheets of notepaper or graph paper together to form a larger sheet. Draw your vase shape symmetrically. No printer needed.
Step 3: Transfer and Cut Cardboard Pieces
Place your template on cardboard and trace with pencil. Use a craft knife or scissors to cut out each piece. Use a cutting mat to protect surfaces.
Step 4: Assemble the Vase
Apply adhesive to edges of cardboard pieces and join them together. Use clips or masking tape to hold pieces while glue dries. Build from base upward, ensuring alignment.
Design Tip
For a more intricate vase, create multiple templates for different segments – narrower top, wider middle, sturdy base. Ensure all templates match in size and symmetry.
Safety Note
When using a craft knife, always cut away from your body and use a cutting mat. Keep fingers clear of the blade path.
