Who knew an ordinary cake box could become a beautifully textured handmade art journal?
In this project, I’m sharing how I transformed simple packaging into a unique cover using three layers of collage, earthy textures, and a few final embellishments. I’ll also give you a peek at the pages I’ve prepared for the inside — soft, translucent, and full of organic character.
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1. The Humble Beginning – A Cake Box
It all started with an empty cake box I almost tossed away. Instead, I saw potential in its sturdy base and rectangular window — perfect for an art journal cover with a peek-through element.
I trimmed and cleaned the box.
The window would become the central feature, giving the journal a unique focal point.
Layer One – Base Collage
The first layer sets the tone and texture.
I covered the entire surface with torn pieces of paper — including old book pages and eco-dyed scraps.
I made sure the edges were uneven to keep the rustic look.
This step gives the cover its foundation of texture and hides the original print of the box.
Layer Two – Paint for a Unified Look
Next, I used muted washes of paint to bring all the elements together.
The paint softened the contrast between different papers.
It gave the whole surface a cohesive, aged effect.
This step was like creating a soft filter that ties everything into one visual story.
Layer Three – Fabric & Lace Accents
The final collage layer added depth and softness:
Lace trim for delicate texture.
Cheesecloth and muslin around the window for a grungy, organic feel.
A statement button with a little thread loop for charm and function.
This stage is where the piece really took on its vintage, tactile personality.
Preparing the Inside Pages
For the inside, I created textured translucent papers from tissue paper:
Layered tissue with glue for strength.
Added stains, inks, and burned edges for an aged effect.
Incorporated holes and embedded fibers for extra character.
These pages will be perfect for mixed media work, sketching, or journaling.
What’s Next
The cover is ready, and the pages are prepped — next comes binding it all together. I plan to arrange the pages so that textures alternate for variety, and to use a binding style that lets the journal lay flat when opened.
Once the journal is complete, I’ll be sharing another blog post with the finished piece so you can see how it all came together.
Final Thoughts
Turning a cake box into a custom art journal was not only budget-friendly but also incredibly satisfying. Every layer tells a story, and the tactile experience of the cover and pages makes this journal a piece of art in itself.
If you’ve got packaging lying around, don’t throw it away — it might just be the start of your next creative adventure.
