How To Make A Chic Accent Table Using Just A Cardboard Box And Dollar Tree Wood

The things you can do with cardboard boxes are endless, and TikTok (and Pinterest) have become proof of that. Believe it or not, that bland, stiff brown box could actually be transformed into the cutest DIY addition. It sounds a little wild, but it is possible! You can even upcycle a cardboard box into a DIY side table or accent table, which is exactly what we're showing you how to do today! Inspired by TikToker @diy_decoration_by_adisa, this project leaves you with a chic, modern-looking accent table (or two) that adds character to a room, fills that unwanted dead space, and saves you the hassle and expense of buying new furniture.

For this chic DIY Dollar Tree cardboard box accent table, you'll need a large cardboard box (think something about the size of a vacuum box) and several Crafters Square Craft Wood Planks from Dollar Tree. The planks measure 16 inches long but may be cut down into different sizes. You'll also need an acrylic black paint (lights coats of spray paint with primer works too) and a hot glue gun. If you don't have a box of this size on hand, consider asking a local grocery store or retailer like Walmart if they have large boxes in the back. Aim for one that stands around 22 inches tall or higher, since that's the typical height of an accent table. You can go taller if you'd like; just look for something on the slimmer side. Keep in mind, the taller the box, the more craft wood planks you'll need, so be sure to measure your box first to figure out exactly how many to buy.

This cardboard decor DIY is one of the easier projects to tackle, so even if you're not the craftiest crafter in the bunch, you'll still ace it. Start by painting your cardboard box, using a dry brush and light coats to keep the moisture to a minimum and reduce the risk of curling. You will probably need to apply multiple coats for an even finish. Once the paint is dry, grab your Dollar Tree craft wood planks. To get the staggered look, measure and cut the planks into varying lengths. Arrange them vertically on the box, stacking one above the other and leaving about an inch of space between each plank.

The first plank can extend just over halfway across the box, with the remaining planks staggered in length, similar to how @diy_decoration_by_adisa does it in her TikTok. Once you're happy with the layout, hot-glue each plank in place. What makes this DIY especially appealing is how customizable it is. You could stain the wood in finishes like dark walnut, golden pecan, or graystone and change the box color to better match your aesthetic, using stain and paint combos that will look stunning in the living room.

Because cardboard can be flimsy, you may want to reinforce the box before adding the planks. One option is to paper mache the exterior, lightly sand it, and then paint over it. Another is to add a thin piece of plywood to the bottom, cut slightly larger than the opening, and paint it to match for a sturdier, seamless base. The end result is a chic, modern accent table that looks far more expensive than it actually is.