I inherited a green & clear plastic sewing 'basket' from my DH's grandmother. It's configured sort of like a tackle box. I've seen boxes a lot like it in thrift stores for really cheap. You might try there and be able to find something unique and interesting to use as your box!
Mine is definitely made specifically for sewing; it has two lift-out trays with various compartments (including pegs for spools of thread) and the bottom area can hold bigger tools or a bit of fabric.
It's kind of getting brittle; the plastic isn't aging all that great. I've lost a thread peg or two. But overall it's still totally useful, and I love the vintage look of it, and the fact that it belonged to DH's grandma.