21 Brilliant Ways to Repurpose Empty Cookie Tins

Scott Jul 20, 2026
You probably have a stack of these collecting dust. 10 brilliant ways to repurpose empty butter cookie tins
You probably have a stack of these collecting dust. 10 brilliant ways to repurpose empty butter cookie tins

When it comes to reducing waste and living more sustainably, many of us are looking for creative ways to repurpose everyday items. One such item that can be given a new lease on life is the humble cookie tin. These tin containers are often discarded after a single use, but with a little imagination, they can become a treasure trove of useful items for your kitchen, pantry, or even your crafting space.

You probably have a stack of these collecting dust. 10 brilliant ways to repurpose empty butter cookie tins
You probably have a stack of these collecting dust. 10 brilliant ways to repurpose empty butter cookie tins

From storing small items like spices, tea, or coffee, to serving as a mini planter for small plants or herbs, the uses for a cookie tin are endless. But if you're looking for more ideas on how to reuse and repurpose these tin containers, keep reading to discover some of the most creative and practical ways to breathe new life into these often-overlooked items.

How to Decorate Cookie Tins with Fabric - The Boondocks Blog
How to Decorate Cookie Tins with Fabric - The Boondocks Blog

Decorative and Functional Ideas

Use as a Pen Holder or Desk Organizer

DIY Cookie Tin Sewing Kit Upcycled Craft Tutorial
DIY Cookie Tin Sewing Kit Upcycled Craft Tutorial

Transform your cookie tin into a functional desk organizer by decorating it with paint, stickers, or decoupage. You can use it to hold pens, pencils, or even small office supplies. This is a great way to keep your workspace clutter-free and add a touch of personality to your office decor.

For example, you can paint the tin a bright color and add a few decorative stickers to give it a fun and playful look. Alternatively, you can decoupage the tin with a vintage-inspired design to give it a retro feel.

How to Upcycle Christmas Cookie Tins into a DIY Tiered Stand
How to Upcycle Christmas Cookie Tins into a DIY Tiered Stand

Use as a Mini Planter or Herb Garden

Another creative way to reuse a cookie tin is to turn it into a mini planter or herb garden. Simply fill the tin with soil, and plant a small herb or succulent. You can also add a few decorative rocks or pebbles to give it a more visually appealing look.

For example, you can plant a small basil or mint plant in the tin and place it on your kitchen windowsill. This will not only add a touch of greenery to your space but also provide you with fresh herbs for cooking.

Metal Cookie Tin Canister DIY
Metal Cookie Tin Canister DIY

Practical and Organizational Ideas

Use as a Spice or Tea Container

Another practical way to reuse a cookie tin is to use it as a spice or tea container. Simply fill the tin with your favorite spices or tea and attach a label to the lid for easy identification.

Clutter Busting With Repurposed & Transformed Biscuit Tins
Clutter Busting With Repurposed & Transformed Biscuit Tins

For example, you can fill the tin with cinnamon, nutmeg, or other spices and use it to add a warm, aromatic flavor to your cooking. Alternatively, you can fill the tin with loose-leaf tea and use it to brew a fresh cup of tea whenever you want.

Use as a Craft or Art Supply Container

How To Repurpose Empty Cookie Tins With Old Road Maps
How To Repurpose Empty Cookie Tins With Old Road Maps
DIY: Paint An Old Cookie Tin Bright Blue, Then Add Cardboard Dividers To Keep Tea Bags Tidy
DIY: Paint An Old Cookie Tin Bright Blue, Then Add Cardboard Dividers To Keep Tea Bags Tidy
a person holding up a blue plate with cookies in front of lemons and leaves
a person holding up a blue plate with cookies in front of lemons and leaves
Recycle Cookie Tins into Stylish Storage You'll Use
Recycle Cookie Tins into Stylish Storage You'll Use
16+ Creative Cookie Tin Craft Ideas to Try
16+ Creative Cookie Tin Craft Ideas to Try
two tins that are sitting next to each other
two tins that are sitting next to each other
DIY Bird Feeder Upcycled From Danish Butter Cookies Tin
DIY Bird Feeder Upcycled From Danish Butter Cookies Tin
Crafts Made With Cookie Tins
Crafts Made With Cookie Tins
a person holding up a tin with an advertisement on it in the middle of a store
a person holding up a tin with an advertisement on it in the middle of a store

Cookie tins can also be used as a container for craft or art supplies. Simply fill the tin with paint, markers, or other art supplies and use it to store your creative materials.

For example, you can fill the tin with watercolor paints, colored pencils, or markers and use it to store your art supplies. Alternatively, you can fill the tin with beads, buttons, or other craft supplies and use it to store your sewing or crafting materials.

With these creative and practical ideas, you can breathe new life into your old cookie tin and turn it into a useful and decorative item for your kitchen, pantry, or crafting space. Whether you're looking for a way to reduce waste, add some personality to your space, or simply get creative, repurposing a cookie tin is a great way to do it.