How to Make a Cardboard Desk

Step 1: Cut front opening Use the scissors to cut the flaps from the box. Then turn the box upside down and make an opening for your child’s legs by drawing an arch from the open, bottom end of the box and cutting it out.
Step 2: Repeat Use the cutout as a template for an identical cutout on the opposite side.
Step 3: Create side storage Create side storage bins by removing the flaps and inner wrappers from the cereal boxes and taping the boxes to the sides of the desk with colored tape.
Step 4: Wrap in tape Secure the side pockets further by wrapping tape all the way around the desk several times.
Step 5: Make desktop bins Make bins instead of drawers for crayons, brushes, and other items by gluing circular canisters along the back of the desk.
TIP: Use small, clean, empty food containers on top of the desk for pen and pencil caddies.
Step 6: Cover with shelf liner Cover the desktop with contact paper. Encourage your child to personalize the box with drawings, paint, or stickers.
FACT: The world’s largest cardboard box measured 37 feet 10 inches by 15 feet 1.5 inches by 7 feet 7 inches in 2007. It was designed and constructed by college students in Denmark.

Lessons in this Guide