If you’re looking for a creative way to organize your craft room while giving everyday items a second life, this DIY coffee can storage container is the perfect project. Instead of throwing away an empty coffee can, transform it into a beautiful decorative storage container using scrapbook paper, simple embellishments, and a custom 3D printed lid and base. Let’s get started!
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DIY Coffee Can Storage Container
This easy upcycling project combines paper crafting, home organization, and 3D printing to create storage that’s both functional and beautiful. Whether you’re organizing craft supplies, sewing notions, office accessories, or even kitchen essentials, these custom containers can be personalized for any room in your home.
Why I Love This Project
One of my favorite ways to organize my studio is by creating storage that matches my décor. Rather than purchasing expensive containers, I decided to upcycle large coffee cans I already had on hand.
With a few sheets of scrapbook paper, coordinating embellishments, and a simple 3D printed lid and base, an ordinary coffee can becomes a decorative storage container that looks right at home on a shelf or countertop.
The best part is that you can customize the design with any paper collection, color palette, or theme to match your own style.
Supplies
- Large 3 lb coffee can (Chock full o’ Nuts used for this project)
- Scrapbook paper (Prima Marketing)
- Tape runner or craft glue
- Hot glue gun
- Super glue
- Sizzix Big Shot
- Sizzix butterfly die and embossing folder
- Prima Marketing embellishments
- 3D Printer
- Filament
- 3D printed base
- 3D printed lid
- 3D printed knob (or substitute with a wooden bead or decorative figurine)
- Optional: Cork dots
- Optional: Mod Podge or laminate sheets
Step 1: Remove the Coffee Can Label
Begin by removing the original paper label from the coffee can.
Save the label because it becomes the perfect template for measuring your scrapbook paper.
Tip: The 3D printed lid and base in this tutorial were designed specifically around the dimensions of the Chock full o’Nuts 3-pound coffee can. Other brands may vary slightly in size.
Step 2: Measure and Cut the Scrapbook Paper
Using the original label as your guide:
- Measure the height.
- Cut two sheets of scrapbook paper to size.
- Overlap the sheets to create one long wrap.
I used a beautiful double-sided paper collection from Prima Marketing, choosing the softer floral pattern that complements my craft room décor.
Step 3: Wrap the Coffee Can
Apply adhesive to overlap the scrapbook paper.
Once the seam is secured:
- Add glue to the back of the paper.
- Wrap it tightly around the coffee can.
- Align the paper carefully so the seam stays straight.
- Trim away any excess.
Pulling the paper snugly helps create a smooth, professional finish.
Step 4: Add the 3D Printed Base and Lid
One of my favorite parts of this project is adding the custom 3D printed pieces.
The printed base:
- Covers the exposed metal bottom.
- Creates a smooth finished edge.
- Protects countertops and shelves.
If you’d like the container to stay in place, simply add cork dots underneath.
The matching lid slips over the top and instantly gives the project a polished appearance.
Sign up for my studio letter to access the 3d print file and more!
Step 5: Attach the Knob
To finish the lid, glue a decorative knob in the center.
I used a simple 3D printed sphere, but there are plenty of creative alternatives:
- Wooden beads
- Decorative drawer knobs
- Resin embellishments
- Painted figurines
- Vintage hardware
Just remember to center it quickly before the adhesive sets.
Step 6: Embellish Your Container
Now comes the fun part!
I decorated my containers using:
- Embossed butterflies cut with my Sizzix machine
- Coordinating Prima Marketing flowers
- Dimensional embellishments
I intentionally kept the embellishments minimal so the scrapbook paper remained the focal point.
This project would also look beautiful with:
- Vintage labels
- Seasonal florals
- Monograms
- Cricut vinyl
- Laser-cut wood accents
The possibilities are endless.
Protecting the Finish
If you’re planning to use these containers in your kitchen or another high-traffic area, I recommend sealing the paper.
You have two easy options:
Laminate the Paper
Laminating before applying the paper helps protect against grease, moisture, and everyday wear.
Seal with Mod Podge
Once the container is complete, brush on a coat of Mod Podge to seal the paper and make it easier to clean.
Either method will help your container last much longer.
Endless Ways to Customize
This project can easily be adapted for almost any room in your home.
Some ideas include:
- Craft room storage
- Sewing room organization
- Kids’ bedrooms
- Office supplies
- Bathroom storage
- Pantry organization
- Coffee bar accessories
- Gift containers
Simply switch out the paper collection and embellishments to match your decorating style.
I ended up making two coordinating storage containers, and they fit perfectly in my craft room while helping keep miscellaneous supplies organized.
I love projects that combine creativity with functionality, and this one checks both boxes. Instead of throwing away an empty coffee can, you can create something beautiful, useful, and completely customized to your space.
If you give this project a try, I’d love to hear how you personalize yours. Leave a comment below and let me know what you’ll use your upcycled storage containers for!
Watch the Full Video Tutorial
Be sure to watch the complete step-by-step tutorial on YouTube where I walk you through the entire process, from measuring the paper to assembling the 3D printed pieces and adding the finishing embellishments.
Happy crafting!
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