Papier-Mache Desk Organizer Crafts

Structure

• Find a box about the size you want your organizer to be. It should be large enough to conveniently hold what you want to have on hand, but not so big that it takes up a great deal of your work surface. Cut it down to make the organizer the perfect height. If you're making pencil and pen storage compartments in it, make the sides at least 3 inches high so items don't fall out. If you are putting the organizer inside a desk drawer and using it for small items like paper clips and thumbtacks, you may want it only 1 inch high.

Arranging Compartments

• Divide your organizer into convenient compartments, keeping in mind the kind of storage you need. Make several small compartments for your writing implements or small supplies, make a section large enough to put a block note pad in or make larger rectangular compartments for holding mail or CDs. It's up to you how you want to divide it; just make sure each compartment is big enough to hold what you want it to hold. Use strips of cardboard and masking tape to make the compartment dividers.

Papier-Mache Supplies

• A basic raw papier-mache paste is actually the most sturdy, as well as the cheapest and easiest to make. Mix equal parts of flour and water to make a basic paste. Add some white craft glue to give the paper pieces a better seal, or add a tablespoon of table salt to prevent mold.

  Layers of thin paper strips will give you the best results. Recycle your old newspapers or use an old phone book. Cut the paper into strips about 1 inch wide and 4 inches long to layer onto the cardboard base. Longer strips can be difficult to work with when you're making small compartments.

  When your papier-mache is dry, a coating of acrylic paint and a clear acrylic sealer not only makes the piece look good, but protects it from humidity and decay.

Techniques

• When layering papier-mache strips, you should overlap them only slightly on the edges. Try to make the first layer all going one direction. After you have one complete layer covering your structure, put a second layer with the strips going the opposite way. Add third and fourth layers, switching the direction of the strips each time. Using this technique will result in an even thickness for efficient drying, and changing the direction of each layer will make the final structure more secure.

  Papier-mache needs to dry thoroughly before you paint it or seal it. Any moist cardboard left on the inside and sealed in will cause internal rot. How long papier-mache takes to dry depends on how wet it was to begin with, how thick your layers are and how humid it is where you live. When it's dry it will be very solid.