DIY 3-of-26: Fabulous, Funky File-Folders

This week I set out on a big organizing project and in the process I needed some file-folders. I wanted some decorative ones as they would be seen in the main part of the house and was appalled to find them for $6 for 5 folders at my local organization store!!! I picked up a pack of manila ones on my way home for $4.40 for 50 folders and some paper and here is what I created!

Want a pretty way to organize all of those loose papers laying around?...Here is how ya do it!

Supplies:

• Plain File Folders
• 12x12 Paper (2 sheet per folder)
• Scissors
• Pencil
• Paper Cutter
• Spray Adhesive
• Clear Coat Spray Paint

#1: Cut half of your sheets of paper into two pieces; one 7 inches long for the front of your folders and remaining 5 inches will become the spines of your folders. Cut the other half of your sheets of paper into two pieces as well; one 7¾ inches for the back of your folders and the remaining 4¼ inches will become your inner tab. Mix up all of your paper to make creative combinations that are unique but all coordinate!

#2: Fold the 5 inch pieces the long way (the hot dog way!) and set aside.

#3: Lay your front and back pieces printed side down and your file folder on top. Trace the outline of the folder tabs with a pencil and cut around the line, you may have to trim a little off the sides.

#4: Using the 4¼ inch pieces of paper do the same tracing and cutting. From personal experience...make sure you lay the paper the way it should look when it is done, then flip BOTH the paper and the folder over and trace on the back so that you do not end up cutting the tab backward!!!

#5: Starting with the inner tab, use a piece of white paper to cover the area you do not want glued and spray the adhesive onto the folder. Line up your paper, lay it down and smooth from the center outward to prevent air bubbles getting trapped. Repeat on the outer side and then allow to dry for 10-30 minutes.

#6: Spray in the inside of your folded piece of paper and then lay the folder in the crease and press smooth. Let dry

#7: Lightly spray all sides with a clear coat of spray paint.  Make sure you do not let the paint puddle or the paper will curl.  Start spraying off the page and then move quickly and smoothly over the folder, making sure you stream of paint is off of the folder when you change directions.

There you have it...quick, fun, and unique! I made six of them as a trial but I am excited to get started on some more! Here are all the combos I did on this round.

Fronts



Backs



I hope you enjoy this project, thanks for letting me share! Happy weekend all!