Decorate plain file organizer with magazine cutouts

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I love to try different mediums. I have been working on a few organizing projects to fix some mess around my work space. Like the multi-task message board and no hole wall holders. Today I am sharing a wooden books organizer that I decorated with paper using mod podge. You can use this idea to decorate a plain file organizer with magazine cutouts to use your favorite patterns, designs and other collections to decorate things at home.

Desktop File Organizer

diy-file-organizer

This project was so much fun all the way. I started by looking through IKEA magazine for some interesting photos. Do you enjoy scrolling through ideas from the magazines?

ikea-magazine-photos

I found these wonderful Plywood File Organizers at IKEA. They are called unfinished wooden organizers for magazine file.

 plywood-file-organizers

Next, I painted them with white acrylic paint. And let them dry.

DIY-decoupage-organizers

paint-office-organizer

Then, I had cut the magazine papers and arrange them around to see how they look.

Finally when I was satisfied with the arrangement. I used Mod podge matte to decoupage them on to the plywood.

decoupage-paper-on-wood

The procedure is very simple but requires paper handling. Spread mod podge on the backside of the paper with the help of a brush and place it in position to glue it on the surface. Apply a thin layer completely covering the paper for best results. You have to speed up in this step as mod podge dries quickly.

decoupage-paper

This part is very important. My alternative to roller, a glue bottle (or anything you can roll).

Roll over the paper to remove any air bubbles, and flatten the paper.

This step will help avoid any creases and irregularities in the surface.

mod-podge-paper

This is how it looks so far. What do you think?

paper-file-organizers

If you are not very technical, you can try this easier and faster way.

Apply mod podge over the wood (instead of paper) and put the paper in place.

mod-podge-coat

Use your fingers to press and set as you go.

mod-podge-decoupage

This method is very easy and gives accurate results with no bubbles and creases below the surface.

paper-decoupaging
 
Once all the papers are set in place. Let them dry.
Afterwards coat the file organizer with mod podge to seal it. It will dry clear.
 
decoupage-with-mod-podge-matte
Decoupage and seal with mod podge.
crafty-organization-for-files

Wooden File Organizer

decoupage-file-organizer

Similarly, I decoupaged this pattern paper on the second file organizer.

paper-file-organization
 
ikea-paper-file-organization

Do you remember these Magnet hearts I made for valentines day?

magazine-organizer-revamped

It was so much fun decoupaging these file organizers for my work space.

Moreover, I love the Ikea magazine photos for inspiration.

Can’t wait to share my next project!

 You will also like:

Spice storage solutions

DIY Apothecary Jars and what to fill?

Dollar store organizer

Looking for more great DIY ideas to organize?

Check out tutorials in the category ORGANIZE.

Are you on pinterest?

You will also enjoy the Home Tips and Everything Kitchen Boards.

These are updated regularly whenever I find unique ideas.

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Hi, I’m Hani

I’m a mom of 2 decorating and soulfully designing our home. I love to share crafts and simple ideas for home and garden.

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  1. farah says:

    great idea. the file organisers look lovely. happy crafting

  2. I am really impressed and got some unique ideas from your work now its my turn i will try to make something else with your method.

  3. Thanks..:)
    I would love to see what you come up with!
    Love
    Hani

  4. Analog Girl says:

    Very clever idea! You should link up to the Delightfully Decoupaged Link party

  5. Dulce Sobremesa says:

    NICE! I absolutely love this file organizer! I think I am going to make one for myself soon! Congratulations on your blog!

  6. CREATIVE MIND says:

    wao,,its such a nice idea..I love decoupage..hmmm

  7. Jacqueline says:

    great idea – i love using modge podge. I found you on Top mommy blogs (just joined) – I inviite you to visit my blog – its a crafty type too – with a focus on handmade cards.

  8. Mod Podge Amy says:

    These are super fun! I love the catalog pages. Great idea!

  9. Hi hani…. what a co incident it is My latest post is also about Decoupage… Your file organizer look fab… I may go for one.

  10. By the Bluegrass says:

    I am a mod podge girl! Sparkle is my favorite! Good idea!
    xo,
    Sena

  11. Kassi @ Truly Lovely says:

    So creative!!! The pictures make it seem so fun!! Like there's something really exciting inside! Thanks for sharing this on Fancy This Fridays!!!

  12. The Stingy Seamripper says:

    Ikea, Mod Podge, collage-y type stuff… this post has a little of a lot of things I love 🙂 Great idea!

  13. A Lived in Home says:

    Oh, so much cuter!!

  14. Karen @ Goodbyecityhellosuburb says:

    I am the worst about organization- I have lots of pile called piles I need to go through! Come and link this to. It would be a nice addition to the party!

  15. Kelli @ RTSM says:

    I love that you used a catalog instead of just scrapbook paper. It makes them so much more interesting:)

  16. Candace @ Candace Creations says:

    Great project I love it! I hope you will link up to Scrappy Saturdays linky party @ candacecreations.blogspot.com

  17. I love this project. I did mine with cereal boxes. I did a layer of mod podge on the inside and outside of the box before I added the decorations. It made it more sturdy! Great post!

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