Tired of messy drawers filled with clutter? It’s time to bring order to the chaos with DIY Drawer Organizers with Cardboard—an easy, low-cost project that uses everyday materials and simple tools. Perfect for kitchen drawers, desk spaces, or bathroom storage, these organizers are fully customizable in size, shape, and style.
Let’s walk through the process using tools easily available on Amazon. Say goodbye to junk drawers and hello to functional, stylish organization!
Tools & Materials You’ll Need
Mat Board Center 25 Pack 12×12 Cardboard Sheets (1/8” thick)
These sturdy cardboard sheets form the framework of your organizer. Easy to cut, measure, and decorate.
X-ACTO Knife Set – 3 Knives, 10 Blades & Case
Precision is key when cutting cardboard, and this knife set delivers clean, accurate cuts with ease.
Breman Precision 15-Inch Metal Ruler with Cork Back
Use this ruler for straight-edge measuring and cutting. The cork backing keeps it from slipping.
AdTech Mini High Temp Hot Glue Gun Kit
This compact hot glue gun is essential for securing the cardboard pieces together quickly and reliably.
Caltero Marble Contact Paper (24” x 78.7”)
Elevate the look of your organizers with this stylish peel-and-stick marble paper. It gives a sleek finish without the cost of real marble.
Extra Large Double-Sided Nano Tape – 1.18” x 160”
Ideal for fixing the organizer inside your drawer or adding a secondary layer of hold without permanent glue.
Oil-Based Paint Marker Pens – 8 Colors
Add some flair! Label each section or add artistic detail with these waterproof, quick-drying markers.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Measure Your Drawer
Start by measuring the inside of your drawer with a tape measure or ruler. Decide how many sections or compartments you want based on what you’ll store (e.g., utensils, socks, makeup, office supplies).
Step 2: Cut the Cardboard
Using the X-ACTO Knife and Metal Ruler, cut the Mat Board Center cardboard sheets into strips for your dividers. Cut slots halfway down each strip where you want the pieces to intersect, creating a grid.
Step 3: Assemble the Grid
Slide the cardboard strips into one another using the notches. Secure the joints with the AdTech Hot Glue Gun for extra stability. Test the fit in the drawer and make any adjustments as needed.
Step 4: Add Style
Wrap each panel with Caltero Marble Contact Paper for a modern, clean look. It’s self-adhesive and easy to smooth out for a professional finish. You can also use Paint Markers to label compartments or add creative details.
Step 5: Secure in Place
Use Nano Tape on the base of the organizer to keep it from shifting around in the drawer. It’s removable, reusable, and holds strong.
Pro Tips
- Cut your notches a little wider than the thickness of your cardboard for easier assembly.
- Label each section with paint markers or use stencils for a cleaner font look.
- Cover only the visible parts of the organizer to save on contact paper.
- Combine various compartment sizes in one drawer to fit everything from pens to rubber bands.
Final Thoughts
With just a few affordable tools and a little creativity, DIY Drawer Organizers with Cardboard can bring major function and flair to your home. This DIY project is easy to complete in a day and fully customizable—whether you’re organizing art supplies, makeup, utensils, or cords. It’s the perfect weekend DIY to bring peace to your drawers and joy to your routine.
Mat Board Center 25 Pack 12×12 Cardboard Sheets (1/8” thick)
These sturdy cardboard sheets form the framework of your organizer. Easy to cut, measure, and decorate.
X-ACTO Knife Set – 3 Knives, 10 Blades & Case
Precision is key when cutting cardboard, and this knife set delivers clean, accurate cuts with ease.
Breman Precision 15-Inch Metal Ruler with Cork Back
Use this ruler for straight-edge measuring and cutting. The cork backing keeps it from slipping.
AdTech Mini High Temp Hot Glue Gun Kit
This compact hot glue gun is essential for securing the cardboard pieces together quickly and reliably.
Caltero Marble Contact Paper (24” x 78.7”)
Elevate the look of your organizers with this stylish peel-and-stick marble paper. It gives a sleek finish without the cost of real marble.
Extra Large Double-Sided Nano Tape – 1.18” x 160”
Ideal for fixing the organizer inside your drawer or adding a secondary layer of hold without permanent glue.
Oil-Based Paint Marker Pens – 8 Colors
Add some flair! Label each section or add artistic detail with these waterproof, quick-drying markers.
