Amazon box turned into display shelves

[the_trademarks]

So for years I have been on the hunt for a way to display my relatively large Kidrobot/vinyl toy collection. Most of these are relatively small (3.5 inches high) and I have a lot of them, at least a couple hundred. My house was random toys strategically placed in clusters everywhere. Originally, I was planning on commissioning a family friend to build several small shelving units  to display them in a pleasing way... But then I started running the numbers and I figured I would need need at least nine 12" by 12" to hold just the highlights in my collection. After discussing this with my husband we decided right now is not the time to spend money on a display because we are looking into purchasing new furniture and we want to ensure whatever we get built is complimentary. Deciding I could not face another year with toys on every flat surface I formulated a temporary solution.

CARDBOARD BOX SHELVING



Picture of joints


Corner close up


To make this I used a medium sized Amazon box and cut 2.5" by 12" strips. It is approximately 12" by "12 with a depth of 2.5". I hot glued three strips together to create sturdier "boards". For the two sides of the shelf I used smaller rectangles to allow the shelves, top, and bottom to fit into a groove. It is all held in place with hot glue. I was shocked at how sturdy it is. The toys are light so I wasn't too worried, but the shelf could definately hold up more if need be. I plan on doing a 3 by 3 configuration and I am testing to see if Command Picture Hanging Strips will hold them up. So far so good. If this doesn't work I can glue hanging hardware to the back.

Originally I was going to cover the corrugated edges with paper tape and paint them, but I kind of like the cardboard look. I would love to hear opinions on paint or no paint.  As always questions and comments are always welcomed and appreciated!

[dfabbric]

That's a great idea. I like the idea of covering them with paper, but only because you can do some really fun stuff, like old comics or book pages or anything really. I wouldn't paint, for a couple reasons, I find it dries chalky on cardboard and the corrugated edges get paint in the holes and doesn't look even. Another idea is duct tape since they have all those fun colors now, including Hello Kitty. But it might be hard to make it look nice, like get thick in the corners and such. It's always hard to decide, because you know it looks good now, which might not be the case after your finished. You could always try sampling different techniques on little swatches of cardboard.
Hope this helps.
I also totally love the Unicornos. I have Mooka too.

[kwality570]

I actually really like the cardboard look of them. The textured edges are a great addition.

[suereal]

I too like the cardboard look.  You made them so neatly, that it looks cool and not garbagy.  I am very impressed with how nicely the corners came out.  I think it's cool since the wee toys mostly come out of cardboard boxes and now they get displayed that way

[tinybits]

It looks really great. I like this color so much I covered my entire library with kraft paper. Plus you did an amazing job no nee to hide any flaws. Thumbs up.

[elderflower]

Brilliant idea. I don't suppose it would be strong enough for bookshelves.  I have the same problem as you re books.  The trouble is my 'temporary' solutions are often still in use ten years later   
Maybe you could cover them in papier mâché  which would give you the opportunity to make them textured if you wanted to.