A tidy workspace is the perfect catalyst for mental clarity and productivity. When your desk is organized, you can focus on what really matters – whether that’s crafting the next bestseller, creating a masterpiece, or meeting a deadline. The good news is that achieving this sense of calm and control doesn’t have to break the bank. With these 41 DIY desk organizer ideas, you can transform your workspace into a haven of efficiency and inspiration without sacrificing your budget.
Desk Organizer made of Cereal Boxes
While it may come as a surprise, there are numerous creative ways to transform cereal boxes into unique and functional items. A perfect example is the two-pocket desk organizer made from an old Captain Crunch box. The seemingly ordinary box has been given new life through the clever use of tape, glue, and decorative paper. The resulting piece features two expandable pockets, ideal for holding pens, papers, or even magazines.
Its versatility allows it to be placed on a desk, side table, or living room coffee table, making it a thoughtful addition to any space.
Wood Desk Organizer
While a cardboard box may provide some basic organization, this desk organizer is a sturdy and reliable solution for keeping your papers, files, and notes in order. Made from wood, it features three levels of storage: two lower shelves designed to accommodate a generous amount of documents and binders, and a top shelf perfect for storing paper clips, notepads, and other writing essentials. The best part?
You can customize the organizer’s size to suit your specific needs, making it easy to create a space that perfectly fits your workspace. Simply head to your local hardware store to gather the necessary materials and get started on building your own unique desk organizer.
DIY Mail Organizer
Imagine strolling into your home after a long day, arms laden with groceries, mail, and perhaps some other essentials. You efficiently stash away the groceries, but what about that pesky pile of correspondence? Can you truly claim ‘lost in transit’ when asked by a financial institution or creditor? It’s time to corral those important documents! Consider this clever fabric mail organizer featuring three spacious pockets.
Mount it near your front entrance, ensuring you always know where to find incoming mail. You can even categorize and assign a pocket for each type of correspondence, making it effortless to stay organized. For the backing, select a sturdy canvas from [insert link here].
Leather Cord Organizers
Have you ever gazed at the chaotic landscape behind your workspace? I know I have – it looks like a Pollock-inspired masterpiece, with wires and cords snaking their way across the surface in a seemingly endless tangle. The problem is all too familiar, but fear not! I’ve got a simple solution to share that will not only tame the beast, but also banish that unsightly eyesore for good.
DIY Desk Organizer made of Upcycled Food Packaging
Another creative way to organize your workspace is by upcycling old food cans and cereal boxes into a DIY desk organizer. This unit features multiple compartments designed to keep office supplies, folders, and documents neatly arranged. The setup includes three decreasing levels of dividers, each with two pen or pencil holders. The upper sections are ideal for storing papers, notebooks, and the lower ones are perfect for post-its and flashcards.
To further categorize your writing utensils and craft materials, you can divide them between the two cup holders provided. Simply place the organizer on a wood base, and you’ll have a tidy desk in no time.
Adjustable Desk Organizer
A desk organizer that can’t be customized to fit your unique needs is essentially useless. However, this innovative desk shelf bucks the trend by offering a clever block system that lets you create the perfect structure for your workspace. What’s more, you’ll have the opportunity to craft it from scratch, making it an excellent scrap wood project for those looking to repurpose leftover materials from previous DIY endeavors.
Just be prepared to dust off your power tools and get ready to get creative!
Magnetic Organizer
Clear up cluttered surfaces by utilizing a magnetic organizer that can hold various metallic items. This clever tray allows you to attach notepads with metal spines, staplers, or punch holes to the wall, freeing up valuable table space. Its versatility extends beyond your workspace, making it an ideal solution for organizing bathroom essentials or dresser accessories. For added convenience, use it to tidy up makeup and jewelry storage. Start by grabbing a set of strong magnets like these
Upcycled Tin Cans
In a world where waste management is becoming increasingly important, it’s refreshing to see that tin cans are being given a new lease of life. Gone are the days when we mindlessly dispose of them after use. Instead, we’re seeing a surge in upcycling and recycling efforts. Take, for instance, three cans from your recycling bin. With some creativity and a few simple materials like paint, glitter, and glue, you can transform these humble containers into functional desk organizers.
But that’s not all – with a little imagination, you can also repurpose them as mini planters or even piggy banks. The possibilities are endless, and the benefits to our environment are undeniable.
Pencil Holder
If you’re like many crafty individuals, you may find yourself accumulating a substantial collection of paper scraps from various projects. This pencil holder is a great way to repurpose those papers and reduce waste. Don’t be afraid to get creative with materials from sources such as magazines and newspaper articles – you might be surprised at the unique prints and designs you can incorporate into your project.
To get started, gather up some paper, along with basic craft supplies like glue or double-sided tape, a ruler, scissors, and of course, pencils.
Memo Board
Ditch the scattered paper notes and upgrade your workspace with a memo board mounted above your desk. This clever solution offers a sleek way to keep your reminders and to-do lists organized and easily accessible. The mesh covering the frame allows you to clip notes and memos in place using clothespins, providing a tidy and functional space for your written thoughts.
For those who prefer a more traditional approach, you can opt for a corkboard instead, securing your notes with push pins for a seamless blend of style and functionality.
Hanging Organizer
When faced with storage constraints, maximizing every available inch becomes crucial. One often overlooked space is the area behind doors, which can be transformed into a functional and organized haven using an over-the-door hanging organizer. This clever solution offers numerous pockets that can be designated for specific categories of supplies, streamlining your storage needs.
To create this organizer, you’ll need the following materials:
Thick fabric, capable of withstanding regular use and providing a sturdy backing for your organizer.
Command hooks, specifically designed to adhere securely to various surfaces without causing damage.
A wooden stick or dowel, which will serve as the primary structure for your organizer.
Buttons or other fasteners, used to secure the pockets in place.
Sewing essentials and a sewing machine, necessary tools for constructing the organizer’s fabric components.
Gift Wrapping Organizer Station
Imagine the frustration of wrestling with crumpled wrapping paper every time you need to package a gift. The constant folding and shoving it into a box can be such a hassle. But what if you could have all your wrapping paper neatly organized, rolled up and ready to use whenever you need it? That’s exactly what an independent gift wrapping organizer station provides. Not only is it practical, but it also becomes a visually appealing display of colors, prints, and textures.
Just imagine having a stand full of beautifully presented papers, waiting to be used on your next gift-giving occasion.
DIY Drawer Dividers
Drawer dividers are often the unsung heroes of our daily lives. A cluttered drawer can be a constant source of frustration, but with these simple organizers, chaos is kept at bay. The impact is most pronounced in the drawers that hold our work essentials and creative supplies. When everything has its designated place, we’re free to focus on the task at hand, rather than wasting time searching for misplaced items.
But the benefits of drawer dividers extend far beyond mere convenience.
By keeping our belongings organized, we’re also saving money in the long run. With a clear understanding of what’s available and where it is, we’re less likely to make impulse purchases or buy duplicate items.
DIY Desk Organizer with a Box Top holder
A vibrant desk organizer that’s bursting with color is the perfect solution to repurpose your scrap papers and decorative materials. You can use jumbo tapes, such as those found here, to add a pop of color and texture to your design. The square box holder can be created using any cardboard tube, such as an old toilet paper roll, or even recycled cereal or gift boxes.
Magazine Organizers
The perpetual struggle with scattered magazines can be frustrating to say the least. Stacks of publications taking over your workspace or cluttering up your desk are not exactly the most aesthetically pleasing sight. Instead of opting for a pricey magazine stand, consider repurposing everyday materials to create your own unique holder.
Building upon our earlier DIY project featuring cereal box desk organizers, we’ll now explore how to craft a functional and eco-friendly magazine stand using just a few simple supplies: self-adhesive fablon, a craft knife, pencils, a ruler, and of course, an empty cereal box.
Magnetic Chalkboard Calendar
Having an organized schedule is crucial for any workspace. A traditional calendar or planner can be effective tools to achieve this, but they often take up valuable desk space. To strike a balance between staying on track and keeping your desktop uncluttered, consider incorporating a chalkboard calendar with magnetic capabilities. This unique combination allows you to customize your scheduling process with ease, making it an ideal solution for maintaining a tidy and productive workspace.
Rope Organizers
In my creative journey, I’ve experimented with various materials to give old items a fresh makeover. Initially, yarn was my go-to solution – an affordable and versatile way to breathe new life into something. However, I soon discovered the added bonus of rope, which can be even more budget-friendly than yarn. To get started, grab some rope from your local hardware store or online retailer, along with some white lace ribbon for added texture.
There are two distinct approaches to creating this organizer: you can wrap the rope around a jar or fashion it as a standalone piece.
Geometric Desk Organizer
Geometry can be a game-changer when it comes to adding personality to your tabletop. The geometric desk organizer is a perfect example of this. Not only can it serve as a functional piece for storing files and folders, but it also has the potential to elevate your space with its unique design and pop of color. Whether you use it as a magazine stand or simply as a decorative accent, this organizer is sure to bring a touch of whimsy to your workspace.
And let’s be real, the added bonus of helping you stay organized and clutter-free is just the cherry on top.
Father’s Day Gift Desk Organizer
When it comes to selecting a Father’s Day gift for dad, many of us find ourselves stumped. Unlike Mother’s Day, where mom is often eager to receive something special, dads tend to be more difficult to shop for. They rarely vocalize their desires, making it seem like they don’t want anything at all. However, there is one thoughtful way to show your appreciation and make a meaningful contribution – help him keep his workspace organized!
One creative approach to achieving this is by crafting a sturdy organizer box using an everyday shipping or delivery box. To begin, use a craft knife and scissors to cut the box into the desired shape. Once you’ve achieved the perfect design, add a touch of personality with a neutral color like black or wood tone, courtesy of some paint. This thoughtful gesture will not only bring order to his workspace but also demonstrate your care and attention to detail.
Wood Floating Corner Desk
By placing a floating desk in a corner, you can unlock numerous benefits over traditional standing desks. The corner configuration provides ample storage opportunities, both above and below the table, allowing for thoughtful planning of your workspace. Moreover, this setup enables you to incorporate more desk space, keeping your belongings organized and out of the way, thereby minimizing desktop clutter.
DIY Phone Holder from Toilet Paper Roll
Joining the toilet paper roll craze is a great decision! Not only do these simple yet versatile DIY projects bring joy, but they also help keep your space organized. One of my favorite creations is a phone holder made from – you guessed it – toilet paper rolls. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make. Before we dive into the tutorial, take note that you’ll need plenty of washi tape on hand.
You’ll be using it to decorate not only the outside but also the inside of the roll, so stock up and get ready for a fun project!
DIY Pencil Case
Feeling overwhelmed by a surplus of empty toilet paper rolls? Transform them into adorable DIY pencil cases that will not only declutter your space but also bring a touch of whimsy to your office organization. With just a few simple materials and some creativity, you can create a stackable stash that’ll keep your writing utensils neatly categorized. Start by gathering felt from [insert source here] and get ready to breathe new life into those rolls.
Hanging Pockets from Old Jeans
I’m sure I’m not the only one who’s accumulated a stash of jeans in their closet, only to hesitate about what to do with them. Those ‘donate’ piles often seem to grow and multiply, don’t they? But fear not, for this project can breathe new life into those forgotten denim pieces. By transforming them into portable storage pockets, you’ll be able to repurpose your jeans in a practical yet stylish way.
To give these pockets an extra touch of personality, consider embellishing them with embroidery, decorative patches, or decals. Not only will you be reducing waste and giving old items new purpose, but you’ll also be creating functional pieces that can be used throughout your home.
Tealight Holder with Embroidery
Step into the world of IKEA, where one visit often turns into a shopping spree. When you find yourself wandering through their aisles, take a moment to pick up the Vackert tealight holders. These simple yet versatile decorations are waiting for your creative touch. For a mere few dollars, you can turn these plain holders into vibrant masterpieces. Simply sew some embroidery floss into the holes, adding a pop of color and personality.
To make it more durable, grab a large sewing or darning needle and some strong glue to secure the floss in place.
Pencil Holder made with Pencils
Create a unique pencil holder that adds a touch of creativity to your workspace or makes a thoughtful DIY gift. This innovative project uses recycled materials and can be repurposed as a vase for flowers.
To get started, gather the following materials:
A clean and dry plastic water bottle
31 unsharpened pencils with varying lengths and colors
Scissors to trim any excess material
Tacky glue to bond the pencils together
Rubber bands to secure the pencils in place
This clever project not only reduces waste but also showcases your creativity. So, get crafting and turn your ordinary workspace into an extraordinary one!
Pegboard Wall
An organized workspace is indeed a masterpiece. With a desk that’s meticulously arranged, you can effortlessly retrieve the items you need – whether it’s office supplies or important notes. A pegboard wall offers a perfect blend of functionality and aesthetics, providing ample storage without consuming precious space in your room. Not only does it serve as a practical solution for keeping your belongings organized, but it also adds visual appeal to your surroundings.
You can even use it as a platform to showcase your artistic creations.
Fabric Pinboard
Looking for a quick and easy DIY project to spruce up your office or home decor? Try making a fabric-covered pinboard that’s perfect for jotting down notes, reminders, or even serving as a unique gift idea. With just a few simple materials like fabric, a staple gun, cork board, quilt wadding, and pins, you can create this functional piece of art in no time at all. To add an extra touch of flair, consider decorating the edges with ribbon or tape.
This project is also great for segmenting your corkboards into organized little slots, keeping your workspace tidy and efficient.
Canvas Bulletin Board
Before putting away all your supplies, take some time to create a personalized canvas bulletin board. To get started, grab a canvas from your local art store or online retailer.
To avoid any mishaps, consider practicing with a staple gun beforehand. If you’re new to using one, don’t forget to wear protective gear, such as gloves and safety glasses.
Before assembling the board, take a few moments to iron out any wrinkles in your fabric.
When stretching it over the canvas, aim for a snug but not overly tight fit.
Gold Marbled Pencil Cup
Behind a seemingly ordinary marbled pencil cup lies an unexpected transformation – a metal tin cup that’s undergone a stunning makeover! While its new appearance may suggest elaborate craftsmanship, the truth is, this beauty was born from a humble metal container given a fresh coat of paint. To recreate this unique look, start by laying out paper towels to catch any stray drips or spills. Then, prepare your ‘canvas’ by mixing water with spray-painted goodness in the cup itself.
Don’t forget some trusty popsicle sticks or toothpicks to gently stir the mixture and distribute the color evenly throughout.
Pencil Jar Tissue Holder
While often overlooked, having a box of tissues at your desk can be a game-changer for productivity and comfort. The downside is that they can take up valuable real estate or become an eyesore. That’s where the magic of crafting comes in – with just a few simple supplies, you can create a one-of-a-kind tissue holder to keep them organized and add some personality to your workspace. Imagine pairing it with your favorite pen cup or notebook, creating a cozy little nook that sparks creativity.
Pokemon Stationary Holder
As a child of the 90s, I’m sure many of us have fond memories of the Pokémon phenomenon. Yet, it’s disheartening to see that this nostalgic craze has seemingly faded away from popular culture. This got me thinking – why not bring back the nostalgia by creating our own personalized Pokémon stationery holders? Not only will these quirky creations bring a smile to your face, but they’ll also serve as a unique desk accessory. To get started, let’s begin by reminiscing about our favorite Pokémon.
Which ones did we love growing up? Once you’ve narrowed down your top picks, it’s time to get creative. Simply download and print out the designs, then use scissors to cut out the shapes before gluing them onto the holders as instructed.
PVC Pen Organizer
To kickstart my quest for decluttering and organization, I begin by gathering all my writing utensils. It’s common to find them scattered about, so it makes sense to corral them in one spot. To achieve this, I turn to pen holders – multiple ones are necessary! While toilet paper rolls can be a handy solution, PVC pipes also offer an alternative. For this DIY project, you’ll need 2-inch PVC pipes, some scrap wood for the base, and your usual crafting supplies.
Pineapple Bookends
The humble bookend is often overlooked, but it plays a crucial role in maintaining the organization of our beloved book collections. Not only do they add a touch of personality to our shelves, but they also prevent the chaos that can ensue when books are left to topple like dominoes. As you browse for bookends, why not take it up a notch and create your own unique designs? You never know what hidden gems you might discover – like these striking gold pineapple bookends.
To get started on your DIY project, be sure to grab the necessary supplies from [insert link here].
Acrylic Phone Stand
Having a phone stand at your disposal can be incredibly practical. Gone are the days of awkwardly propping up your device against various objects, trying to find the perfect angle. This small accessory elevates not only the phone’s height but also provides a protective barrier from unsavory surfaces, whether you’re working or watching your favorite movies. The benefits don’t stop there – it can even enhance the overall viewing experience with its thoughtful design.
So, if you’re still on the fence about phone stands, let this colorful and clever option win you over!
Acrylic Calendar
Transforming your organization skills is as simple as crafting a custom acrylic calendar. With just a few basic supplies, you can create a tailored tool to suit your needs.
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
* A plexiglass sheet from any reputable supplier
* A Cricut machine for precision cutting and design
* Vinyl in your preferred color or pattern
* Transfer tape to ensure smooth application
* A downloadable calendar template to serve as your guide
Once you have all the necessary components, use your creativity to customize your calendar. Your Cricut machine will be an invaluable asset in bringing your vision to life.
Lazy Susan
The versatility of Lazy Susans knows no bounds – they’re always in style! This particular iteration combines convenience with creativity and color. Just imagine the vibrant hues swirling around when you rotate the base. Whether it’s a desk companion to organize your office supplies or a kitchen addition, this Lazy Susan will help you get your daily routine back on track.
To bring this vision to life, you’ll need to acquire some basic hardware and a wooden base.
Once you have those essentials in place, the fun part begins – decorating it however you see fit! With a little creativity, the possibilities are endless.
Acrylic Tray
Customizing acrylic trays is a breeze, requiring only a few basic materials. Start by gathering your base components: an acrylic sheet, handle hardware or drawer pulls, and a drill. For added flair, stock up on decorative essentials like tape, spray paint, and any embellishments that catch your eye. To prepare the tray for its new hardware, use your drill to create holes along the edges.
Before drilling, take a moment to measure the drawer pulls and mark the desired hole locations with a pencil, ensuring a precise fit.
Photo Holder
Having loved ones nearby while working is indeed a wonderful feeling! I often have a few cherished photographs scattered across my desk, which not only brings joy but also makes it feel more personalized. Nevertheless, it’s easy for the space to get cramped and cluttered with all the visual reminders. That’s where creative solutions come in – like repurposing wooden blocks into photo holders that can be customized using a wood burning tool.
This clever hack allows you to add a personal touch to each holder, making them truly unique and special.
Makeup Brush Holder
While it’s common to focus on keeping our workspaces organized, let’s not forget about another important area of our daily lives – our dressing tables. A clutter-free space with easy access to applicators and brushes is a must-have for anyone who values their morning routine. Fortunately, there are simple ways to achieve this without breaking the bank. For instance, a wooden brush organizer can be a great addition to your dressing table.
If you’re feeling crafty, you can even upcycle wood you already have at home instead of buying new. Once you’ve measured and cut out the various inlets, you can customize the look by staining or painting it to match your personal style.
Tiered Tray
It’s time to put those spare baking trays and tart tins to good use. Why not transform them into a tiered storage system that will keep your workspace organized? Simply stack the trays on top of each other, creating a sturdy stand for holding pencil holders, papers, or any other desk supplies you need close at hand. To stabilize the structure, attach giant wooden beads to the bottom of the trays using plenty of glue.
A rolling pin can come in handy when smoothing out any rough edges and ensuring everything stays secure. While you’re at it, consider giving your new storage solution a fresh coat of paint to match your personal style.
Foam Unicorn Pinboard
Elevate your workspace or spark creativity in your little one’s work area with a dash of whimsy! Consider this vibrant foam unicorn pinboard that brings a burst of fun and playfulness to any room. Its radiant colors and subtle sparkle will add a delightful touch to your desk, making it the perfect spot to express yourself or get lost in imagination. To create your own masterpiece, gather foam sheets, boards, glitter paper, and your go-to crafting supplies.
For an added bonus, download and print our free template for instant inspiration!
41 DIY Desk Organizer Ideas
Transform your workspace by creating a bespoke desk organizer, effortlessly boosting your storage capacity. With just 20 minutes of preparation time and 40 minutes of hands-on activity, you can have this DIY project completed in under an hour. Crafted with a mere $2 investment, this project is an affordable and effective way to streamline your office essentials.
Equipment
When it comes to crafting and DIY projects, having the right materials can make all the difference. From everyday items to specialized tools, a well-stocked arsenal is essential for bringing your creative vision to life. Take cardboard boxes, for instance – these humble containers are often overlooked but offer endless possibilities for transformation into everything from sculptures to storage solutions.
Similarly, paper in its various forms, whether it’s plain old printer paper or decorative sheets, provides a versatile canvas for artistry and imagination. And then there are the more specialized tools: scissors for precise cutting, glue for bonding, and double-sided tape for securing – each one plays a crucial role in the creative process, allowing you to shape, mold, and assemble your creations with precision and control.
Materials
Transforming your workspace into a haven of organization and creativity requires more than just a dash of imagination. It demands innovative thinking, resourcefulness, and an abundance of repurposed materials. In this era of eco-friendliness and sustainability, DIY desk organizers have become the norm, with countless items taking center stage as functional yet aesthetically pleasing creations.
From the humble cereal box to upcycled tin cans, wooden pallets, and even toilet paper rolls, the possibilities are endless. Take for instance, a simple desk organizer crafted from a collection of cereal boxes, which can be molded into various shapes and forms, providing ample storage space for pens, papers, and office supplies. Alternatively, a wooden desk organizer, carefully crafted with precision and attention to detail, can add a touch of rustic charm to any workspace.
The world of DIY mail organizers is another realm where creativity knows no bounds, as cardboard tubes become makeshift pen holders and envelope racks. For the more fashion-conscious among us, leather cord organizers and adjustable desk organizers serve as stylish companions, while magnetic organizers and hanging pocket systems provide an effortless means to keep important documents at arm’s length.
The art of upcycling takes center stage with creations like upcycled tin cans turned into quirky pencil holders or memo boards, all the way to elaborate gift wrapping stations and DIY drawer dividers that double as functional pieces of furniture. From wooden floating corner desks to canvas bulletin boards and pegboard walls, the boundaries between functionality and artistry blur, creating a space where creativity flows freely.
Instructions
To get started on your creative project, first identify the type of organizer or material you’d like to work with. Next, gather all the necessary materials and tools you’ll need to bring your idea to life. And finally, let your creativity shine by diving in and getting crafty!