For Makers
Basic Techniques Explained
Explore the art of cardboard upcycling, where each piece reflects our dedication to sustainability and minimalist design. This article highlights a project that embodies our ethos, inviting you to delve deeper into our studio’s unique approach.
Video Tutorials Available
Starter videos
4:18
7:35
4:26
14:24
11:29
Recommended Crafting Tools
Cut / Half-Cut
1. Large Cutter Knife
Main tool for cutting thick cardboard cleanly and efficiently.
Peeling
3. Tweezers
Helps peel layers in tight areas where fingers can’t reach.
*Equivalent item may be suggested.
Peeling
4. Sash Scraper
A flathead screwdriver or a metal ruler work well too.
Cut / Half-Cut, Creasing
8. Metal Ruler 150mm
Perfect for small parts and precise detailing.
Cut / Half-Cut, Creasing
9. Metal Ruler 300mm
For straight cuts and accurate measurements on large pieces.
Cut / Half-Cut, Surface Protection
11. Cutter Mat
Main tool for cutting thick cardboard cleanly and efficiently.
*Equivalent item may be suggested.
Cut / Half-Cut
12. Corner Guard
Used as a ruler — the L-shape helps protect your fingers while cutting.
*Equivalent item may be suggested.
Gluing, Assembly
13. Wood Glue
Strong and clean bonding for all cardboard assemblies.
*Equivalent item may be suggested.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What type of cardboard is best for making projects?
For most ITOSHIGE STUDIO designs, single-wall cardboard with a thickness of about 3–4 mm (B-flute or C-flute)is the easiest to work with and is recommended for beginners.
This type of cardboard offers a good balance between strength and flexibility, making it suitable for cutting, folding, and assembling small furniture or storage projects.
For projects that require more strength, such as cabinets or larger boxes, double-wall cardboard (around 6–7 mm thick)can also be used.
It is worth noting that Amazon shipping boxes often contain a high percentage of recycled paper, which makes the cardboard softer. Because of this, they can be more difficult to use for techniques such as half-cuts.
Instead, cardboard used in packaging for televisions, appliances, or furniture is often harder and more consistent in quality, making it easier to work with.
Where can I find suitable cardboard?
One of the best sources of cardboard is packaging from appliances or furniture, such as TV boxes or large product packaging.
These boxes are often made from stronger cardboard and tend to have more consistent quality, which makes them easier to cut and shape.
They are also usually large enough to provide good material for making cabinets, storage boxes, and other furniture-like projects.
Reusing this type of packaging is a simple and accessible way to start making projects while also embracing the idea of upcycling everyday materials.
Half-cuts are difficult for me. Do you have any tips?
First, try experimenting with different types of cardboard.
Darker and harder cardboard tends to work better for half-cuts. Cardboard used for Amazon shipping boxes is often lighter in color and contains more recycled paper, which makes it softer and easier to cut all the way through. This can make half-cuts more difficult to control.
Another unconventional technique is to lightly file the tip of your utility knife blade.
Brand-new blades are extremely sharp, and sometimes they cut too easily even when you try to apply less pressure. Slightly dulling the very tip can make it easier to control the cut and prevent the blade from going all the way through the cardboard.
Finally, try not to complete the cut in a single pass. Instead of applying strong pressure, gently slide the blade along the line several times. This gradual approach makes it easier to control the depth of the cut.
You do not always need to cut perfectly through the corrugated layer. In many cases, partially cutting the surface and then folding the cardboard to finish the break works just as well.
Watch tips video => Struggling with Half-Cut? Just Do THIS to Your Cutter Blade!
Made by You. Our Makers Community!
If you are working with ITOSHIGE STUDIO templates, please share your creations with us. We would be thrilled to see them come to life. Feel free to tag us via your social media account or share your creations directly with us at studio@itoshige.com. THANK YOU.