Create Your Own DIY Desk Calendar with 3 Methods
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Materials and Tools
- Designing the Calendar Pages
- Crafting the Base: Method 1 - Using Cardboard
- Crafting the Base: Method 2 - Using Chipboard and Cardstock
- Crafting the Base: Method 3 - Using Chipboard and Paper
- Punching Holes in the Pages and Base
- Binding the Calendar
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🗓️ How to Make Your Own DIY Desk Calendar
Are you looking for a creative and fun project to make your very own desk calendar? Look no further! In this tutorial, I will show you three different methods to create your desk calendar base, from a super easy and quick method using a recycled box, to a more professional-looking method using chipboard. Plus, I will provide you with all the instructions and measurements you need to make your calendar with or without printable patterns. Let's get started!
🖊️ Materials and Tools
To begin with, let's gather the materials and tools you will need for this project. Don't worry, these items are easy to find and you may already have some of them at home. Here's what you'll need:
- Printing paper (or double-sided matte premium presentation paper)
- Printer
- Recycled cardboard box (for Method 1)
- Chipboard (for Method 2 and 3)
- Large piece of cardstock or patterned paper
- Glue stick (recommend Elmer's Craft Bond Extra Strength Glue Stick)
- Scissors or straight cutter
- Pen or pencil
- Ruler
- Hole punch (preferably a cinch press)
- Double wire coils (recycled from an old notebook)
Now that you have everything ready, let's move on to designing the calendar pages.
🎨 Designing the Calendar Pages
The first step is to design your calendar pages. You can either create your own design from scratch or find digital download calendars or templates online. If you choose to design them yourself, make sure to format your calendar pages with a clearance of about half an inch at the top to accommodate the binding later on. I recommend using a software like Clip Studio Paint EX for its versatility and ease of use.
The size I'm using for the calendar pages is 4.25 inches by 5.5 inches. This is a small calendar size that works well for a desk. However, feel free to adjust the dimensions to your preference. Once your calendar pages are designed and formatted, it's time to print them out.
📐 Crafting the Base: Method 1 - Using Cardboard
For the first and simplest method of crafting the base, you will need a piece of corrugated cardboard. Cut the cardboard to the correct size of 11 inches by 5.5 inches. Make sure the ridges in the cardboard are perpendicular to the length. Next, mark a line that is 4 and a third inches from one end, and do the same on the other end. Fold the cardboard along these marked lines, taking advantage of the pre-made ridges in the cardboard to make folding easier. Finally, add a third fold in the middle for a compact fold. Now your DIY desk calendar has a sturdy base!
✂️ Crafting the Base: Method 2 - Using Chipboard and Cardstock
Method 2 offers a more professional look to your desk calendar base. Begin by cutting chipboard pieces according to the measurements of 4.25 inches by 5.5 inches for the larger pieces, and 1 inch by 5.5 inches for the smaller pieces. Then, cut a large 12 by 12-inch piece of cardstock or patterned paper in half. Take one half and glue the chipboard base in the middle, ensuring it is well glued and smoothed out. Trim the corners of the paper that are peeking out and fold each side over, gluing the paper to the chipboard and creating a neat wrap. Repeat the process with the remaining strip of paper to cover the remaining exposed chipboard. Once dry, gently fold the base along the folds made earlier. This method provides a clean and colored base for your desk calendar.
📏 Crafting the Base: Method 3 - Using Chipboard and Paper
Method 3 offers a balance between simplicity and a polished look. Just like in Method 2, begin by cutting chipboard pieces to the required dimensions. Arrange the chipboard pieces on your colored paper, leaving small gaps in between. Glue the chipboard to the paper, ensuring you press into the grooves to create a solid bond. Cut off the corners of the paper and fold the sides over, gluing them to the chipboard. Trim the second strip of paper to cover the remaining exposed chipboard and glue it on, again pressing into the grooves. Once completely dry, your base is ready to be folded along the grooves. This method provides a sturdy base with a neat appearance.
🔖 Punching Holes in the Pages and Base
With the calendar pages and base ready, it's time to punch the holes that will allow you to bind them together. Using the appropriate template or guide, mark the holes on each calendar page and the base. Punch out the holes with a hole puncher, ensuring they are evenly spaced and aligned. This step may require some effort, especially for the base, but it's crucial for a successful binding process.
📚 Binding the Calendar
Now it's time to bind your DIY desk calendar! Line up all your calendar pages in the correct order against the front of your base. Slip the double wire rings through the punched holes from the back to the front. Then, grab the back of your base and line it up with the pages. Gently pinch the double wire coils closed to secure the calendar together. If needed, use pliers to ensure a tight closure. Congratulations! Your DIY desk calendar is complete and ready to be used or gifted.
🎉 Conclusion
Making your own DIY desk calendar can be a fun and rewarding project. Not only does it give you a creative outlet, but it also provides you with a practical and personalized way to keep track of dates and events. With the three different methods showcased in this tutorial, you can choose the one that best suits your preferences and available resources. So, why not give it a try and enjoy the process of creating something uniquely yours?
🙋 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use regular printer paper instead of double-sided matte premium presentation paper for the calendar pages?
A: Yes, regular printer paper works just fine for the calendar pages. The double-sided matte premium presentation paper provides a higher quality finish, but it's not essential for a successful DIY desk calendar.
Q: Can I use a different software for designing the calendar pages instead of Clip Studio Paint EX?
A: Absolutely! While I recommend Clip Studio Paint EX for its versatility, any digital design software that allows you to create and format your calendar pages will work.
Q: Where can I get double wire coils for binding the calendar if I don't have an old notebook to recycle them from?
A: Double wire coils can be purchased from stationery or craft stores. Alternatively, you can search online for suppliers of binding supplies or consider using a different binding method, such as binder rings or twine.
Q: Can I customize the design and size of the calendar pages to fit my preferences?
A: Of course! The beauty of making your own DIY desk calendar is the ability to personalize it according to your taste. Feel free to experiment with different designs, sizes, and color schemes to create a calendar that reflects your style.
Q: Can I make multiple copies of the DIY desk calendar for gifts?
A: Absolutely! Once you have the materials and tools ready, you can easily create multiple copies of the DIY desk calendar. It makes a great handmade gift for friends, family, or colleagues.
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