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Looking for an eco-friendly way to decorate your walls without breaking the bank? ♻️ Cardboard might not seem like the most glamorous material, but with a little creativity, it can be transformed into stunning wall art. These 7 DIY cardboard wall hanging ideas are perfect for anyone from kids and teens to adults who love a good upcycling project. Not only do these crafts reduce waste, but they also bring a cozy, handmade feel to any space.
Let’s explore seven easy, creative DIY wall hanging crafts made from recycled cardboard boxes. Plus, we’ve included a few tried-and-tested Amazon tools 🛠️ that can make your crafting experience smoother and more fun.
1. Layered Mandala Wall Art 🎨
Transform plain cardboard into an intricate mandala by cutting out symmetrical layers and gluing them on top of each other. Use a pencil to sketch your design or print a template to trace. Once the layers are assembled, paint each one in calming tones like ivory, gold, or pastel blue for a boho touch.
This piece looks stunning as a statement above a desk or bed and it’s surprisingly simple to make with just scissors, glue, and patience.
2. Geometric 3D Wall Hanging 🧩
Create a bold, modern piece with geometric shapes cut from cardboard. Think triangles, hexagons, or cubes layered to add dimension. This works beautifully in minimalist or Scandinavian-inspired spaces.
Helpful Product Recommendation:
🔹 Fiskars Craft Knife Set – Having used multiple knives in past projects, this one stood out for its precision and comfort. The grip makes it easy to control for detailed cuts, especially with cardboard. It comes with extra blades, which is a lifesaver during multi-shape cutting.
- ARTS AND CRAFTS STAPLE: The easy-to-use Fiskars SoftGrip Craft Knife has a durable body and a SoftGrip handle for enhanc…
- PRECISION ART SUPPLIES: Ideal for precise cutting of a wide variety of materials, including paper, cardstock, thin plast…
- LONG LASTING AND RELIABLE: Solid aluminum handle offers durability to withstand any kind of use; Fiskars craft supplies …
3. Kids’ Animal Silhouette Hanging 🐘🎨
Looking for a weekend craft with the kids? This one’s for you. Cut out cardboard silhouettes of animals like elephants, whales, or butterflies and let your kids paint them in fun colors. Use string to hang each one vertically or horizontally.
This is a fun educational craft too kids can learn about animals while being creative. Display it in their bedroom or playroom for an instant pop of personality.
4. Boho Fringe Wall Art 🌈
Combine recycled cardboard with yarn to create a textured boho piece. Cut cardboard into a semi-circle or triangle, then glue colorful yarn or twine in layers to create a fringe effect. Add beads, feathers, or tassels for extra flair.
This project works well for bedrooms or entryways, especially when paired with neutral-toned decor.
5. Rustic Cardboard Picture Frames 🖼️
Upcycle your cardboard into picture frames with a rustic twist. Cut out square or rectangular shapes and layer for a thicker frame look. Use jute twine to wrap the borders and hot glue to secure.
Helpful Product Recommendation:
🔹 Surebonder High-Temperature Hot Glue Gun – This glue gun has been a staple for all cardboard projects. It heats up quickly and holds even heavier embellishments securely. Plus, it’s compact and beginner-friendly.
- Can reach 380 degrees F for optimal bonding with metal, wood, ceramics, and other porous and non-porous materials
- Includes heating base (for holding and warming glue gun in cordless mode) and mini glue pad to hold gun between applicat…
- Use indefinitely with cord, or up to 3 minutes without cord
Add photos, quotes, or even your kids’ drawings inside for a charming, personalized gallery wall.
6. Painted Wall Quote Panels ✍️
Cardboard can be your canvas. Cut it into small rectangular panels, paint them in solid pastel shades, and write inspirational quotes using a paint pen or stencil. Arrange the panels in a grid or line across your wall.
This idea is especially great for home offices or study nooks where motivation matters.
7. Mini Hanging Planter Display 🌿
Turn thick cardboard into mini wall-mounted planter holders. Create a small rectangular base, fold and glue sides to make a shallow pocket, and decorate with paint or paper. These aren’t meant for real soil but can hold faux succulents or air plants beautifully.
Helpful Product Recommendation:
🔹 Artificial Succulent Plants Set – For non-messy, maintenance-free decor, this set has been fantastic. The quality looks realistic, and they’re lightweight perfect for delicate cardboard holders.
- 16PCS DECORATION SUCCULENT PLANTS SETS : Total Includes 16 pieces of highly realistic artificial plants （Size:1.57″- 5.9…
- NO NEED MAINTENANCE : Skip those hassle of watering, sun lighting,fertilizing and pruning to save your precious time, id…
- REALISTIC and SAFE : Odorless and safe for pet, these faux succulent plants are made of strong PVC plastic with flocking…
It adds a lively, green touch to any room no watering needed!
Final Thoughts 💭
Crafting with cardboard is not only budget-friendly and sustainable it’s also incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re decorating a new apartment, making something fun with your kids, or just relaxing on a Sunday afternoon, these wall hanging ideas offer creativity with a low carbon footprint.
And with a few trusted tools and materials like the ones recommended above, your DIY experience becomes smoother and more enjoyable. Remember, it’s not about perfection it’s about the joy of making something with your own hands 👐.
