DIY Concrete Bowl and Lid

Now that we’ve said goodbye to summer and hello to fall, I’m ready to get down to business! Anyone else? With that in mind, I’ve been getting things organized around here… and what better way to stash your things than in this DIY concrete bowl? It’s as cute as it is useful.

There’s something so effortlessly cool about concrete so I kept this DIY bowl / box simple and easy. This was also my first time working with concrete and I have to say I’m excited to dream up more concrete projects! If you’re in need of some modern small storage for your office supplies, keys or jewelry, this DIY was made for you 🙂

Materials

– Cardboard boxes – 1 medium box with lid + 1 small box
– Concrete / Plaster of Paris (plaster is more readily available)
– Nailpolish or bottle cap
– Vaseline
– Mixing Cup
– Trowel or popsicle sticks
– Optional: plastic gloves + safety glasses

Directions

1. Apply a thin layer of vaseline to the inside of the medium cardboard box, inside of the lid and the outside of the smaller cardboard box. This will make it easier to remove the concrete once it’s dried. If needed, use a paper towel to wipe off any globs of vaseline.
2. Place a bottle cap in the centre of the cardboard lid where you’d like the rope pull to be.
3. Now let’s prepare the concrete in two steps. Just a note: while working with concrete you might want to wear plastic gloves and safety glasses in a well ventilated room for added safety.
4.  Measure out how much dry concrete mix you’ll need and divide it into two containers. Prepare the first container of concrete by following the package instructions.
5. Slowly pour the concrete into the medium cardboard box until about 1/2 inch high. Pour the rest of the concrete mixture into the cardboard lid.
6. Tap the lid and box gently on a flat surface to bring any air bubbles to the surface. Set both aside to dry.
7. Mix the remaining concrete according to package instructions.
8. Insert the smaller cardboard box (which should be covered in vaseline from step 1) into the medium cardboard box. It should sit on top of the concrete layer you poured in step 5.
9. Pour concrete in the space between both boxes, making sure the smaller box is centered.
10. If you have fast setting concrete it should be dry within a few hours or simply set it aside overnight.
11. Once dry, remove the bottle cap gently from the lid and tear the cardboard boxes apart
12. Insert a piece of hemp rope into the lid hole and tie off for an easy handle.

The perfect solution for hiding all those little office supplies that clutter up my desk!

First try with concrete and I’d say it was a success, right? If you’re ready for more, here are some  DIY organization ideas to get your workspace looking its best!