How to make DIY Storage Book Boxes for Mementos

I recently updated my home office & was looking for ways to add more storage and organization. I have so many random trinkets, accessories, mementos, jewelry, etc & was looking for a way to not only organize them, but add chic design elements for my shelves. So, I made my very own DIY storage book boxes!

DIY Storage Book Boxes for Mementos

Storage book boxes are exactly what they sound like – they’re faux, hollow books that open up like a box. You can use them to store just about anything! I’ve been using them for years to store sunglasses & jewelry in.

When I decided to make my own DIY storage book boxes, I customized them using faux linen books. You can totally leave them as is, but I thought it would be fun to add quotes from my favorite movies, books & songs. I also added antique borders & flowers to give the look of a vintage book.

You can get creative with them using Canva or the Circuit design space. I even made a special custom storage book for wedding photos and mementos with lyrics to one of our favorite songs.

DIY Storage Book Boxes – What You’ll Need

1. Empty Linen Storage Books
2. Cricut Machine
3. Vinyl
4. Transfer Tape
5. Cutting Mat (if needed for your machine)
6. Weeding Tools
7. Your Own Artwork or Pre-made Designs
8. A Computer, Tablet or Phone with Cricut Design Space

DIY Storage Book Boxes – Instructions

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

First things first, let’s gather all the goodies. Order some empty linen storage books from Amazon. They come in various sizes, colors & materials, so choose ones that fit your mementos and match your decor.

Make sure your Cricut machine is ready to rock, and have your vinyl and tools handy. You can use whatever color vinyl you want. I used permanent vinyl in a gold metallic color. You can also use iron on if you want, but it’s not necessary.

Step 2: Design Your Cover

Time to get creative! You can use Canva or work directly in the Cricut Design Space. If you’re feeling artistic, you can create your own design or illustration. Not so much of an artist? No worries – you can use my template.

Personalize it with your name, a favorite quote, song lyrics or even a significant date.

Step 3: Cut Your Design

Once you’re happy with your design, it’s time to cut it out.

1. Place your vinyl on the cutting mat, making sure it’s smooth and bubble-free.
2. Load the mat into your Cricut machine.
3. In the Design Space, select your material type and let the Cricut work its magic!

Step 4: Weed Your Design

After your design is cut, it’s time to weed out the excess vinyl. Use your weeding tools to carefully remove the unwanted pieces. This step is super satisfying – like peeling a sticker!

Step 5: Transfer Your Design

Now, let’s get that beautiful design onto your storage book!

1. Cut a piece of transfer tape to fit over your design.
2. Peel the backing off the transfer tape and carefully place it over your design.
3. Use a scraper tool to ensure the design sticks to the transfer tape.
4. Gently peel away the transfer tape, bringing the design with it.

Step 6: Apply the Design to Your Book

Align your design on the cover of your linen book. Once you’re happy with the placement:

1. Carefully press the transfer tape (with the design) onto the book cover.
2. Smooth it out with your scraper tool to remove any bubbles and ensure it sticks well.
3. Slowly peel away the transfer tape, leaving your design beautifully adhered to the cover.

Step 7: Fill Your Box

Now for the fun part – filling your new storage books. Think letters, photos, small souvenirs, ticket stubs, jewelry or anything that holds a special place in your heart.

Step 9: Display Your Masterpiece

Place your new DIY storage books on your bookshelf, coffee table or desk. Not only is it a fun storage solution, but it also adds a personalized touch to your space.

Looking for more fun Cricut Projects? Try this one!