How do you make a magazine file holder?

Creating your own magazine file holder is an easy and affordable way to organize your magazines and keep your space neat and tidy. Whether you want a simple design to store magazines on a shelf or a more elaborate holder to display the latest issues on a coffee table, making your own magazine holder is a fun DIY project.

What You’ll Need

The basic supplies you’ll need include:

• Cardboard (from shipping boxes or old cereal boxes)
• Scissors
• Ruler
• Pencil
• Glue (hot glue gun or craft glue)
• Decorative paper (optional)
• Paint/stain (optional)

The exact measurements and type of cardboard you’ll need depends on the size of the magazine holder you want to make. For a basic holder, a large sheet of cardboard is sufficient. For a more complex design, you may need multiple sheets of varying sizes.

Planning Your Design

First, decide on the size and style of holder you want to make. Consider where you want to use or display it and how many magazines you want it to hold. Here are some options to get you started:

• Simple box – Just four sides and maybe a bottom panel for support.
• Partitioned box – Dividers to keep magazines separated and upright.
• Step holder – Tiered ledges for displaying magazines.
• Wall mount – Shaped like a pocket to hang on the wall.
• Desktop display – Angled holder that sits on a desk.

Sketch out some different shapes and configurations to finalize your design. Keep in mind how the cardboard will need to be cut, folded and secured.

Cutting the Cardboard

Use your sketches to determine the size and number of cardboard pieces you’ll need. Use a ruler and pencil to measure and mark the cardboard before making any cuts. Cut the pieces carefully with scissors or a utility knife. Here are some tips:

• Cut longer strips for the main structure first.
• Cut shelves, dividers and other interior pieces next.
• Cut equal sized pieces that are mirrored images for symmetrical parts.
• Use a ruler and carpenter’s square for straight edges.
• Use pinking sheers for decorative zig zag cuts if desired.

As you cut, lay out the pieces to see how they’ll fit together. Adjust as needed for proper fit.

Assembling the Holder

Once your pieces are cut, it’s time to assemble them. Apply glue to the joints and tabs, and press firmly together. Clamps, tape or weights can help hold pieces together while glue dries. Here are some tips for assembling:

• Glue backs before sides and let dry.
• Reinforce joints with craft sticks if needed for support.
• Let side panels overlap front and back for stability.
• Use double thickness cardboard for weight bearing surfaces.
• Test fit shelves in place before gluing.
• Let glue dry completely (24 hours is best) before use.

The order you assemble the pieces depends on the design. Work methodically for best results. Let sections dry fully before adding additional components.

Finishing Touches

Once constructed, consider adding some decorative touches like:

• Paint or stain – Apply in a solid color or use distressing techniques.
• Decoupage – Glue on paper, fabric, photographs, etc. with decoupage glue.
• Spray paint – Light coats work well for a sleek look.
• Wallpaper – Use scraps or samples to cover the holder.
• Decals – Museum putty lets you temporarily stick items on.

Add any embellishments sparingly so they don’t overwhelm the design. Make sure finishes are sealed and dry before placing magazines inside.

Filling and Using Your Magazine Holder

Once your magazine file holder is complete, it’s time to put it to use! Here are some tips:

• Place newest issues on top or in front for easy access.
• Store magazines vertically or gently fanned for visibility.
• Keep special editions flat if space allows.
• Dust occasionally and wipe down with a damp cloth as needed.
• Reseal paint or decoupage if it starts wearing.
• Adjust dividers or supports if magazines don’t fit right.

Be careful not to overload the holder or force magazines in too tightly. And browse through your collection from time to time to pull out older issues to donate, recycle or share.

DIY Magazine Holder Designs

For more inspiration, here are some step-by-step instructions for making specific types of magazine holders:

Wall Mounted Magazine Holder

Supplies Needed:

• 1 sheet cardboard 22″ x 28″
• Craft glue
• X-acto knife
• Ruler

Instructions:

1. Using the ruler and X-acto knife, cut the cardboard into the following pieces:

2 pieces 16″ x 10″ (sides)

1 piece 6″ x 22″ (bottom)

1 piece 6″ x 5” (top support)

2. Glue the bottom piece centered on the bottom edge of each side piece. Let dry.
3. Glue the top support piece over the top edges of the side pieces to hold in place.
4. Mount on wall using strong double-sided tape or screws.
5. Decorate as desired with spray paint, decoupage, etc.

Desktop Magazine Rack

Supplies Needed:

• 1 sheet cardboard 22″ x 28”
• Craft glue
• X-acto knife
• Ruler

Instructions:

1. Cut the cardboard into the following pieces:
   

   1 piece 16” x 5” (back)

   1 piece 16” x 12” (base)

   2 pieces 5” x 10” (sides)

   1 piece 16” x 3” (support)

2. Glue back piece to base at one long edge. Glue support centered on opposite edge.
3. Glue sides to angled back piece, about 2” down from top edge.
4. Reinforce joints with extra glue or tape if needed.
5. Spray paint rack and let dry fully before using.

Partitioned Magazine Basket

Supplies Needed:

• 2 sheets cardboard 22″ x 28”
• Craft glue
• X-acto knife
• Ruler

Instructions:

1. Cut cardboard into the following pieces:
   

   2 pieces 16” x 8” (sides)

   2 pieces 8” x 8” (ends)

   1 piece 15” x 7” (bottom)

   2 pieces 15” x 4” (dividers)

2. Glue sides to ends, keeping bottom edges flush.
3. Glue bottom piece inside, evenly spaced from sides.
4. Glue dividers parallel to each other down center of basket.
5. Reinforce joints with craft sticks if needed.
6. Decorate basket with decorative paper or fabric.

Tips for Making Sturdy Magazine Holders

Follow these tips to help ensure your homemade magazine holder is strong and sturdy:

• Use thicker cardboard like from shipping boxes for better support.
• Reinforce stress points and weight bearing joints with extra glue, tape or craft sticks.
• Use rectangular pieces rather than angled cuts when possible.
• Avoid overly complicated structures if using thin cardboard.
• Let glue dry fully – at least 24 hours – before using the holder.
• Spray paint or sealant can help strengthen and waterproof cardboard.
• Test balance when placing on desktop or shelves.
• Monitor wear and repair any loosening joints right away.

Troubleshooting Magazine Holder Problems

If your magazine holder isn’t holding up well, try these troubleshooting tips:

Magazines Sliding or Falling Over

• Add cross braces or side panels for more stability.
• Place rubber feet or traction pads on bottom.
• Adjust magazine capacity to avoid overloading.
• Use velcro strips to help hold magazines upright.

Holder Warping or Sagging

• Reinforce weakness points with additional cardboard pieces.
• Use a stronger cardboard like double walled cardboard.
• Add corner brackets for more structural support.
• Place on flat, even surface and avoid bumps/movement.

Paint or Glue Not Holding

• Roughen surfaces before painting for better adhesion.
• Apply sealant over paint to protect and strengthen it.
• Use super glue or epoxy for a stronger bond on joints.
• Check cardboard isn’t warped – wet and reshape if needed.

Conclusion

Creating a DIY magazine holder is an easy, fun project for any crafter. Follow the steps for measuring, cutting, gluing and decorating to make your own holder in any size or design. Troubleshoot any issues as needed to end up with a holder that looks great and keeps your magazine collection organized. Let your creativity shine by designing a holder that showcases your style – the possibilities are endless!