An Everyday Solution: the IKEA SUNNERSTA Hack

I recently bought the compact IKEA SUNNERSTA mini-kitchen block for my apartment.

To maximize the limited space underneath the stainless steel sink,

I came up with a creative DIY recycling station.

This custom-sized origami paper trash bin (55 cm height, 25x25 cm width/depth / 21.6" × 9.8" × 9.8") fits absolutely perfectly under the frame.

By using this handmade paper bin for dry waste.

I still have plenty of room right next to it for my organic waste and plastic recycling.

It’s a great, eco-friendly way to keep a small kitchen perfectly organized without spending extra money on expensive plastic bins!

1. First, cut a rectangular hole into the top of the cardboard box; I left a border of about 3 cm.

I found most of the historic front pages (like the Titanic and Atomic Bomb announcements) by searching for old 'newspaper' archive covers online and printing them out. After printing, I carefully tore the paper clippings by hand so that the large, historic headlines remained clearly readable.

Next, I arranged these newspaper snippets onto the cardboard box to create a unique collage. Once I was happy with the layout, I used the roll of clear duct tape to completely cover, seal, and fix the paper pieces onto the cardboard. This protects the historic prints from dirt and moisture.

In the final building step, I used the black duct tape to add maximum stability and a clean finish. I carefully taped all the outer edges and corners of the box. I also used the black tape to cover the edges of the precut hole at the top. This reinforces the opening where the trash goes in, preventing the cardboard from tearing or fraying during daily use. It also creates a beautiful, bold black frame around the historic newspaper collage.