Make Your Desk Accessory Set

Use various containers like Mason jars, vases and tin cans to create a matching desk accessory set that will keep all your school essentials organized and within reach.
White and Yellow Containers Holding Desk Accessories

Stylish White and Yellow Desk Organizers

Use various containers like Mason jars, vases and tin cans to create a matching desk accessory set that will keep all your desk essentials organized and within reach.

By: Chelsea Costa

Materials Needed:

  • mismatched containers of varying sizes
  • wood hobby board, approximately 1/4" thick
  • spray paint formulated to adhere to plastic or glass
  • museum putty
  • hot glue gun and refills
  • hand saw with miter box
  • container embellishments (embroidery thread, fabric scraps, leather, twine)

Paint Containers

In a well-ventilated area, spray-paint all containers. If spray paint is formulated to adhere to plastic or glass, you shouldn't need a primer coat. Apply multiple coats of thin, even paint. Allow paint to dry and cure thoroughly to avoid using a sealant; one to two days in a well-ventilated area should be sufficient.

Original_Chelsea-Costa-Desk-Organizers-Step1_h

Embellish Containers

Add a little embellishment to each container. Try wrapping containers with embroidery thread for a color-blocked effect, adding fabric in various shapes or wrapping with leather (Image 5). Get creative with the accents you find at your local craft store. Glue on the embellishments with a dab of hot glue. Note: To make a tassel, wrap embroidery thread repeatedly around three fingers (Image 1). Remove (Image 2), snip end and wrap end around the rest of the thread (Image 3). Secure with a dot of glue. Trim ends and use to decorate (Image 4).

Saw and Sand Board

Decide on a length for your board, ensuring that it will be long enough for all containers. Saw off excess (Image 1) and sand any rough edges (Image 2). Note: A power saw will work as well; be sure to use with caution.

Paint Board

Apply a few even coats of spray paint to top and sides of board. Allow to dry.

Original_Chelsea-Costa-Desk-Organizers-Step4_h

Affix Containers

Decide on an arrangement for your containers. Using museum putty, affix containers to top of board.

Set Up and Get Organized

Display your new desk accessory set and stock with all of your school supplies. Use it to hold those pesky, easy-to-lose office items like paper clips, pens and thumbtacks.

Next Up

Low-Maintenance Plants for Dorm Rooms

These succulents aren't just beautiful, they're super low-maintenance, too. Plant them in bright, hand-painted pots and they instantly become the perfect addition to an apartment or dorm room.

Dorm Room Decorating: Must-Know Tips From College Students

You may think a bland dorm room holds no decorating potential, but just wait. We have savvy design and storage tips to turn your new college digs into home sweet home.

DIY Painted Animal Bookends

Transform everyday materials into sturdy, colorful bookends to dress up your bookshelves.

How to Make a Multipurpose Room Divider

Separate your spaces with a multifunctional room divider that is upholstered in a patterned fabric on one side and painted with chalkboard paint on the other.

How to Make a Fabric Pouf Ottoman

A multipurpose decor item, this fabric pouf can be used as an ottoman, extra seating for guests or as a coffee table with a tray on top. Use a fun, patterned fabric that matches the other decor in your dorm room.

How to Make a Recycled T-Shirt Rug

Don't throw away those old T-shirts — they can easily be turned into a one-of-a-kind doormat to decorate the inside of your dorm room.

How to Make a Personalized Wall Photo Mural

This printable wall mural makes a bold statement without the need for paint or wallpaper, perfect for apartments and dorm rooms where temporary decor is a must.

How to Make a Bulletin Board Headboard

Short on space? No problem! Create a beautiful headboard that does double duty as a bulletin board or jewelry display in your dorm room.

How to Make a DIY Light-Up Sign

Follow the steps below to make this blogger DIY project featured in HGTV Magazine.

Make a Wall Organizer From Upcycled Hardwood Flooring

Concur clutter with this easy-to-build hanging helper made from hardwood flooring.

More from:

Back to School

What's New in Handmade

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.