In today’s fast-moving digital world, where screens often dominate our creativity, some celebrations remind us of the joy of #HandmadeArt. One such celebration is National Cartonnage Day, a special day dedicated to the timeless craft of creating decorative and useful objects from cardboard and paperboard. From personalized boxes to innovative home décor, cartonnage combines imagination, skill, and sustainability. Celebrated widely by artists, craft enthusiasts, and eco-friendly advocates, the day emphasizes how simple materials can be transformed into beautiful creations. This year’s observance shines a spotlight on innovation and sustainability. Let’s dive into the details of #NationalCartonnageDay.
History of National Cartonnage Day
National Cartonnage Day has its roots in the early 21st century when craft enthusiasts in the United States began emphasizing the revival of cartonnage as a creative and eco-friendly hobby. While the tradition of cartonnage itself dates back centuries—originating in France during the 18th century as a decorative craft for making book covers, boxes, and keepsakes—the modern observance was established much later.
The official celebration of National Cartonnage Day began in 2018, thanks to Claudia Squio, a professional cartonnage artist and teacher. She created this observance to spread awareness about the craft and inspire more people to explore this unique form of artistry. Squio, originally from Brazil and now residing in the United States, dedicated herself to teaching cartonnage techniques, publishing instructional materials, and building communities of learners. Her goal was to make people see cardboard not as waste but as a resource for creative expression.
Through workshops, online tutorials, and community-based events, Squio’s initiative grew into a national recognition. Today, it’s celebrated every year on the third Saturday of September, bringing together craft lovers across borders.
Importance of National Cartonnage Day
National Cartonnage Day holds importance for several reasons:
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Preservation of Traditional Craft – By dedicating a day to cartonnage, we keep alive a craft that has existed for centuries, ensuring it doesn’t fade in the face of modern technology.
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Encouraging Creativity – It inspires people of all ages to explore their creativity using simple, accessible materials like cardboard and fabric.
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Sustainability – With growing concerns about environmental degradation, cartonnage promotes recycling and repurposing materials, reducing waste.
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Stress Relief and Mindfulness – Crafting is known for its therapeutic value, offering a calming and mindful experience in today’s busy lives.
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Community Building – Workshops, exhibitions, and craft clubs foster human connection, creating a sense of belonging among participants.
In short, the day underscores the role of creativity in sustainable living and personal well-being.
Significance of National Cartonnage Day
The significance of this day lies in its message: beauty can emerge from simplicity. By transforming ordinary cardboard into extraordinary creations, cartonnage becomes a symbol of innovation, patience, and eco-consciousness.
It reminds us that creativity doesn’t require expensive tools or rare resources—what’s needed is imagination and effort. For children, it’s an educational tool teaching them about recycling and design. For adults, it’s an artistic outlet with therapeutic effects. For society, it’s a step toward sustainable consumption and reducing environmental impact.
National Cartonnage Day also honors the artists who keep this craft alive, highlighting the cultural importance of handmade items in a world increasingly dominated by mass production.
Why National Cartonnage Day Is Celebrated
National Cartonnage Day is celebrated for three main reasons:
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To Spread Awareness – Many people still do not know about cartonnage or how cardboard can be transformed into artistic and useful objects. The day educates and inspires.
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To Encourage Crafting – It motivates people to try their hands at crafting, proving that art is for everyone, not just professionals.
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To Promote Sustainability – By showcasing recycled and upcycled materials, the day advocates for eco-friendly practices and conscious living.
Thus, the celebration is not just about crafts but also about cultivating values of responsibility, creativity, and environmental care.
How National Cartonnage Day Is Celebrated
National Cartonnage Day celebrations take different forms across communities. Some of the common ways include:
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Workshops and Demonstrations – Craft teachers and artists host hands-on sessions, guiding people through the process of making boxes, organizers, or décor items.
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Online Tutorials and Virtual Meetups – With digital platforms, enthusiasts from across the world can connect, share ideas, and learn.
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Exhibitions – Art shows display innovative cartonnage items, inspiring others to take part.
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DIY Challenges – Craft groups and schools organize contests encouraging participants to create unique cartonnage designs.
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Community Crafting – Libraries, community centers, and art clubs host group activities, making the day interactive and social.
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Eco Campaigns – Environmental groups join hands to emphasize recycling, highlighting how cartonnage can reduce waste.
Children often participate by making simple pen stands, jewelry boxes, or bookmarks, while adults enjoy more complex projects like handbags, storage units, or home decorations.
Where Is National Cartonnage Day Celebrated?
National Cartonnage Day started in the United States, but its message has traveled globally. Today, it is celebrated in:
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United States – The birthplace of the modern observance, where workshops and craft groups celebrate it enthusiastically.
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Brazil – Home country of Claudia Squio, where her influence has reignited interest in cartonnage.
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France – As the historic origin of cartonnage, France also acknowledges the day with craft clubs and artisan workshops.
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United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia – Growing communities of craft lovers celebrate it through online and local events.
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Other Countries – Many eco-conscious individuals and schools worldwide incorporate cartonnage in educational programs, even if the official day is lesser known.
Thus, while the scale may vary, the spirit of the day resonates across borders.
Citizen Involvement and Success
The success of National Cartonnage Day depends on active citizen participation. People contribute by:
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Hosting DIY Parties at Home – Families and friends gather to create projects together.
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Sharing Creations Online – Social media platforms become filled with cartonnage projects, inspiring others to join in.
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Supporting Local Artists – Citizens purchase handmade cartonnage products, encouraging artisans.
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School Projects – Teachers introduce students to the craft, blending fun with education.
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Community Fundraisers – Selling handmade cartonnage items helps raise funds for local charities or eco-projects.
This involvement not only spreads awareness but also turns the celebration into a collective act of creativity and sustainability.
Theme for National Cartonnage Day 2025
Every year, National Cartonnage Day embraces a theme that resonates with the current times. The theme for 2025 is:
“Sustainable Creativity: Crafting a Greener Tomorrow.”
This theme emphasizes the role of cartonnage in promoting eco-friendly practices, reducing waste, and encouraging a lifestyle that values handmade, recycled, and reusable creations. It reflects global concerns about climate change and resource conservation while highlighting the joy of crafting.
10 Famous Quotes for National Cartonnage Day
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“Creativity is intelligence having fun.” – Albert Einstein
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“The world is but a canvas to our imagination.” – Henry David Thoreau
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“Handmade is the luxury of the future.” – Anonymous
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“Art is not freedom from discipline, but disciplined freedom.” – John F. Kennedy
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“Sustainability is not a choice, it’s a responsibility.” – Anonymous
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“Crafting is the art of turning the ordinary into extraordinary.” – Anonymous
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“When you recycle, you give waste a second chance to shine.” – Anonymous
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“The joy of creating is the purest joy of living.” – Anonymous
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“In every handmade object lies a piece of the maker’s soul.” – Anonymous
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“Cartonnage is proof that beauty can emerge from simplicity.” – Anonymous
FAQs
Q1. What is National Cartonnage Day?
It is a special day celebrated on the third Saturday of September to honor the art of cartonnage—creating decorative and functional items from cardboard.
Q2. Who started National Cartonnage Day?
It was started by Claudia Squio, a Brazilian-American cartonnage artist, in 2018.
Q3. Why is National Cartonnage Day celebrated?
It is celebrated to spread awareness about the craft, encourage creativity, and promote sustainable living.
Q4. Which countries celebrate National Cartonnage Day?
Mainly the United States, but it is also observed in Brazil, France, and other countries where craft communities are active.
Q5. What materials are used in cartonnage?
Cardboard, chipboard, paper, fabric, glue, and decorative materials are commonly used.
Q6. What is the theme for National Cartonnage Day 2025?
The theme is “Sustainable Creativity: Crafting a Greener Tomorrow.”
Q7. Is cartonnage suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is easy to learn with simple projects, making it suitable for children and beginners.
Q8. How can I participate in National Cartonnage Day?
You can join a workshop, try a DIY project, share creations online, or host a craft party with friends.
Q9. Does cartonnage help the environment?
Yes, it promotes recycling and upcycling, reducing waste and encouraging sustainable habits.
Q10. Is cartonnage only decorative, or functional too?
Cartonnage items can be both decorative and functional, such as boxes, organizers, or home accessories.
Conclusion
National Cartonnage Day is more than just a celebration of cardboard crafts—it is a movement that blends creativity with sustainability. By transforming something as simple as cardboard into valuable art, the day teaches us about resourcefulness, mindfulness, and eco-responsibility. Started in 2018 by Claudia Squio, the celebration has grown into a global recognition of handmade artistry. In 2025, with the theme “Sustainable Creativity: Crafting a Greener Tomorrow,” the day inspires us to rethink waste and embrace the joy of crafting. So, this September, pick up some cardboard, let your imagination flow, and be part of this creative journey.
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My name is Subhajit Bhattacharya , I am a Instrumentatin Engineer and working as a content writer for this site, All the information of this site is only for educational purpose.
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