How to Make a Desktop Calendar Using a CD Case
Desktop calendars are very handy for business or home offices. Having a small calendar at hand saves time, and the calendar itself can be an attractive part of the office décor. Making your own desktop calendar from a clear plastic CD case allows you to custom tailor it to your workspace. You can design your calendar using craft techniques such as stamping, or you can download free software for the purpose. The calendar can be month-by-month or display an entire year. This inexpensive project makes a great gift, too.
Things You'll Need
- Card stock
- Calendar software or craft decorating materials
- CD case
- Scissors
Instructions
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Make the calendar insert. You can use computer software or make it by hand.
If you want to use a computer, download a free shareware program from the Internet and design your calendar according to the programmer's instructions. Some of these programs make it possible to add your own digital photos. Print out the completed calendar and cut it to fit the CD case. Dimensions are 5 inches by 4 3/4 inches. The 5-inch side is the vertical dimension.
If you are making your calendar by hand, cut out the card stock and decorate it in any manner you wish with paintings, drawings, stamps, and so on. You can also glue photos to the cardstock. Draw out the calendar grid by hand or staple on a small monthly calendar.
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Make the CD case into a stand. Take out any paper and remove the top cover of the CD case by slightly splaying out the plastic hinge pieces on each corner. Be careful not to break the plastic. Next, remove the plastic CD insert. Gently pop it out of the CD case bottom piece. Discard the insert.
Turn the case cover over and re-attach it at the hinge sites to the bottom. You should not be able to close the case; the inside of the front of the case should face the outside of the bottom. It will not fold flat but rather stay propped up at an angle, creating the calendar stand.
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Slip the card stock into the front piece of the CD case using the four plastic brackets on the inside of the front cover piece to hold it in place. Now you should be able to see the completed calendar through the outside of the front cover piece.
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Tips & Warnings
Use a regular CD case, not a slimline jewel case. The jewel case will not stand up at a sufficient angle to properly display your calendar.
