Most of the time, I think of exactly what I need for organization but can never find it when I look in stores. And organizers are ridiculously expensive if you do seem to find one that remotely fits your idea. I pictured exactly what type of organizer I wanted, what I wanted to put in it and how big it needed to be. I used a technique that trends in and out every decade. It seems like a kid project, but really, it is perfect, even if it can get a little tricky. The only thing you need is duct tape, sharp scissors and about 40 minutes. You can make wallets, bags, pouches, small purses – anything you need, and it really is couture because it is one of a kind. Tape is cheap, and it comes in all sorts of fun colors and patterns that you can purchase almost anywhere. This is totally adulting.

Supplies:
Duct tape
Scissors
Cardboard or base (optional)

Steps:

  1. I wanted a book-type of organizer that fits a small, but thick, yearly calendar, with some room for a few bills and a couple of credit cards or IDs. I roughly eyed out how big I need it to be and used a cardboard cereal box for a base structure. I cut the cardboard to size and began wrapping with tape. I used the cardboard, so the organizer would be heavier and not flimsy. Cardboard is completely optional.
  2. I used duct tape with a pattern, so it was a little trickier than plain duct tape. I would use plain next time, so it is easier to match up. I wrapped, according to pattern, from top to bottom. Using sharp scissors is a must!
  3. Once the whole base was covered, I made pockets on the right side by folding the sticky sides of the tape together and placing them in a row like a wallet. I secured the pockets by vertically taping the edges on the inside and outside of the planner.
  4. Then for the left side, I used a continuous piece of tape, stuck it together on both sides and secured it underneath, so my calendar could slide in and out.

By Jamie Burke