However, that doesn't mean that these charming boxes have to end up collecting dust on a thrift store shelf or — even worse — in a landfill. To ditch nightstand clutter by upcycling a recipe box, you will first need to find one. If you don't have any luck there, then check the thrift store. Then, to upcycle the recipe box, gather items like paint, stencils, decals, and even three-dimensional decorations for the outside, such as artificial flowers or stick-on gemstones. Let's take a look at some clever ways to upcycle an old recipe box for a practical, stylish way to make your bedroom more organized.