Turn an empty cigarette pack into a pocket-sized journal that's perfect for notes, sketches, lists, or creative ideas on the go. This simple project upcycles packaging that would otherwise be thrown away, transforming it into something useful and surprisingly charming. With just a few basic supplies and a little glue, you'll create a mini notebook that tucks neatly inside its original flip-top cover. It's a fun beginner-friendly project and a great way to turn everyday waste into something you'll actually use.
🛠 Supplies You’ll Need
To build your dispenser during the workshop, bring:
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Empty Cigarette Pack
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Scissors
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Paper
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White Glue
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Binder Clips
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Small Scrap of woven fabric
👩🎨 Meet the Teacher: Fafa Hahn
is an artist and maker. From studying fashion in college, to now as 42 year old ADHD hobby hopper, she has learned many arts and crafts skills over the years. From sewing to crochet to printmaking and more, she recently started a company called Craft Crew Los Angeles. She hosts Craft Social Clubs and art classes/workshops in LA.
You can find Craft Crew LA on TikTok, IG and Facebook @craftcrewla
👣 The Step by Step Project
Step 1) Remove plastic outer layer.
Step 2) Remove inner paper layer.
Step 3) Cut right side and bottom off pack.
Step 4) Cut Papers into rectangles that will fit in the pack. I had some business card sized blank paper sheets from Daiso on hand that fit perfectly into a pack of 100s.
Step 5) Cut scrap of fabric into a rectangle that is slightly shorter than the long edge of the paper and twice the width of the paper stacked.
Step 6) Use Binder clips on one of the long sides of the paper stack.
Step 7) Spread some white glue on the other long edge.
Step 8) Place the fabric on the edge with the glue and add more glue on top and smooth out excess glue. Secure sides of fabric down with glue as well.
Step 9) Move binder clips to the short side close to the glued edge to keep papers tight and let dry.
Step 10) Add more glue to top of fabric and glue to the “spine” of the cigarette pack be sure to wipe away any excess glue from the sides.
Step 11) Once dried, remove binder clips and make sure the top of the pack closes.
Step 12) Enjoy your new upcycled mini journal!
‼️Important Notes, Tips or Tricks
Can be done with any size cigarette pack I just happen to have 100s.
💬 Join the Fun & Share!
Did you try this project? Do you have your own mini book-making technique to share? Drop a comment below with your tips or show us what you made! We’d love to see your projects!
