- Categories:
- Special Interest
- Tags:
- Obscure
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every September 18
- Holiday emoji:
- 📦
National Cartonnage Day celebrates the intricate art of fabric-covered box making every September 18. This centuries-old French craft transforms simple cardboard into elegant, personalized storage and decor. Discover the joy of selecting fabrics, laminating materials, and embellishing your own unique cartonnage creations today!
Want to sponsor National Cartonnage Day? Learn how
Expected National Cartonnage Day Deals
While we await official 2027 promotions, history shows that craft retailers and fabric stores often feature sales on essential cartonnage supplies around National Cartonnage Day. Look for discounts on sturdy chipboard or cardboard sheets, a wide array of quilting fabrics, and specialized PVA glue at stores like JOANN Fabric and Crafts, Hobby Lobby, and independent fabric shops. Online suppliers such as The Cartonnage Store and Box and Craft may also offer bundles or free shipping on kits and tools. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as September 18 approaches.
Platform Guide for National Cartonnage Day
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalCartonnageDay. Share photos and reels of your intricate fabric-covered boxes, showcasing your favorite patterns and embellishments.
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #NationalCartonnageDay. Film quick tutorials on basic cartonnage techniques, from cutting cardboard to applying fabric, or a time-lapse of a project.
YouTube
Subscribe to @NationalToday for holiday video content. Create longer, in-depth video tutorials on advanced cartonnage projects or a ‘shop with me’ for supplies.
National Cartonnage Day Hero
The French Artisans
History of National Cartonnage Day
Today, cardboard boxes occupy a virtually irreplaceable place in our lives. Interestingly, they haven’t been around for all that long a time — only a few centuries! As per historians, the first paperboard box was invented in 1817 in England by a company named M. Treverton & Son. The invention of the cardboard box followed suit in the same year in Germany. In 1890, Scottish Robert Gair invented the pre-cut cardboard box.
The invention of breakfast cereal soon increased the widespread usage of cardboard boxes. The Kellogg Company was the first organization to use cardboard boxes as cartons for their cereals. Pleated paper was patented in England in 1856 and was initially only used as a liner in tall hats.
Corrugated boxboard was not patented for its use as a shipping material until 1871 when a patent for single-sided corrugated boards was issued to Albert Jones. Jones used his patent to wrap bottles and glass lantern chimneys. The mass production of corrugated boards was made possible by G. Smyth in 1874. By the early 1900s wooden crates and boxes were rapidly being replaced by cardboard boxes, something that was only invented in 1895.
National Cartonnage Day timeline
The cardboard box is invented in Germany.
The corrugated boxboard is patented by Albert Jones.
Pre-cut cardboard boxes are invented by Robert Gair.
Corrugated cardboard boxes are invented in the United States.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Cartonnage Day
Local craft stores and boutiques can host cartonnage workshops, teaching participants how to create their own fabric-covered boxes. Offer special discounts on essential supplies like chipboard, decorative fabrics, and adhesives for the day. Interior design shops could showcase cartonnage pieces as unique storage solutions or decorative accents, highlighting the customizability of the craft. Consider partnering with local fabric designers to create exclusive kits or patterns, drawing in both seasoned crafters and curious newcomers.
National Cartonnage Day FAQs
When is National Cartonnage Day?
National Cartonnage Day 2026 is observed on Friday, September 18. It’s a perfect opportunity to dive into the elegant art of fabric-covered box making.
What is cartonnage?
Cartonnage is the art of creating fabric-covered boxes and decorative items using cardboard as the base. The practice involves meticulously cutting cardboard pieces, assembling them into a desired shape, and then laminating them with fabric to create a beautiful and functional object.
How popular is cartonnage?
While not as mainstream as some crafts, cartonnage has experienced a quiet resurgence in recent years, particularly among enthusiasts of intricate textile arts and DIY home decor. Online communities and specialized workshops continue to grow its dedicated following.
What materials are needed for cartonnage?
The primary materials for cartonnage include sturdy cardboard or chipboard for the structure, various fabrics (often quilting cottons) for covering, and a strong adhesive like PVA glue. Essential tools also include a craft knife, ruler, cutting mat, and a bone folder for crisp edges.
How to Observe National Cartonnage Day
Watch a cartonnage tutorial
If you’re interested in cartonnage, watch a tutorial on how to make your first box. You can find one on YouTube.
Try making a box
Now that you have seen the method, try making a box! It gives you the chance to put your new skill to use.
Invite some friends to try it too
Call a bunch of friends over for a box-making party. You can share ideas and learn from each other.
5 Facts About Cardboard Boxes
Most boxes are made from softwood trees
Most cardboard boxes are made from softwood trees such as pine, spruce, and fir trees.
Cats love cardboard boxes
Cats love cardboard boxes because hiding in them seemingly reduces their stress levels.
Cardboard packaging is eco-friendly
Cardboard packaging is the most eco-friendly packaging right now due to it being recyclable, biodegradable, and non-toxic.
The U.K. loves recycling packaging
The United Kingdom has some of the highest recycling rates for packaging.
Kellogg’s cereal was loosely packed
The original Kellogg’s cereal was loosely packed in the box with a wax-sealed bag wrapped around the outside.
Why National Cartonnage Day is Important
Making boxes is a fun activity
Making boxes is undoubtedly fun. National Cartonnage Day is a good chance to try it out!
It introduces the art to more people
National Cartonnage Day has the potential to introduce this wonderful art to more people. In this way, the art will be carried on throughout the generations.
It’s an opportunity to learn a new skill
Learning new skills can have many benefits. National Cartonnage Day is a good opportunity to do just that!
National Cartonnage Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | September 18 | Friday |
| 2027 | September 18 | Saturday |
| 2028 | September 18 | Monday |
| 2029 | September 18 | Tuesday |
| 2030 | September 18 | Wednesday |
Social Media Tips for National Cartonnage Day
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