Cardboard Organiser with the Chompsaw

What you'll make

A handy desk organiser — compartments for pens, scissors, or small bits — built entirely from cardboard using the Chompsaw. Great first project for younger makers; no sharp blades, no fuss.

What you'll need

• Corrugated cardboard (cereal boxes work, but double-wall cardboard is sturdier — grab some from the materials bin)
• A pencil and ruler
• PVA glue or a glue stick
• Paint or washi tape to decorate (optional)

Step 1 — Plan your layout

Sketch out how many compartments you want and roughly what size. A simple 2×2 grid of 80mm × 80mm × 100mm tall sections is a good starting point — small enough to fit on a desk, big enough to be useful.

Step 2 — Mark and cut with the Chompsaw

1. Draw your cut lines on the cardboard with a pencil and ruler
2. Place the cardboard on the Chompsaw mat, lining up your cut line with the blade guide
3. Press down on the handle — the Chompsaw cuts cleanly through cardboard without any blade exposure
4. Cut all your panels: front, back, sides, base, and any internal dividers

The Chompsaw is designed to be safe for all ages — no induction needed, but ask a volunteer if it's your first time.

Step 3 — Assemble

1. Score fold lines lightly with a blunt pencil if you need any bends
2. Glue the base to the side panels first — hold for 30 seconds while the glue grabs
3. Add the internal dividers, then glue the front and back panels last
4. Use small folded cardboard triangles in the internal corners for extra strength

Step 4 — Decorate

Once dry, paint it, cover it in washi tape, or leave it natural. A coat of watered-down PVA over the outside stiffens the cardboard and gives a tougher finish.

Tips

• Double-wall cardboard (the thick stuff) makes a much sturdier organiser than single-wall
• If your cuts aren't straight, use a longer ruler as a guide against the Chompsaw fence
• Glue sticks are faster for thin card; PVA gives a stronger bond but needs drying time
• Make the compartments taller than you think you need — things always end up taller than planned

What's next?

Once you've got the hang of scoring and folding, try building a more complex box with a lid, or prototype an enclosure for a small electronics project before committing to laser-cut acrylic.