We needed a tray for our inset materials—my kids enjoy the insets but Mr 3 especially get frustrated with transporting them and keeping the inset from slipping around constantly. Some would suggest that the insets are better without a tray, so that the child can practice keeping the insets still with their free hand. I don’t disagree, but I think we have to build up to that point, at least when you have a child who is eager but still needs a little scaffolding (this is always Mr 3, he will be over it by the time he’s “ready” for it).
This is one item that is justified it’s special tray, but that doesn’t mean we can always justify the price. So instead of waiting for an opportunity to buy one (I made two of them), and frustrating ourselves, I used what I had available to make something that would work. This tray was made with 2 layers of cardboard and school glue.
This DIY was super simple and really took almost no time to put together. Usually I recommend wood glue for glueing cardboard, however I used regular white school glue and it is holding together fine so far.
Tools needed:
- craft knife
- straight edge
- wood glue (or school glue)
Materials required:
- 2 10”x14” pieces of cardboard
This project is super simple. First, cut out your template printable. Cut one half on dotted line, overlap and tape together.
Using your template, cut two pieces of cardboard to the exterior dimensions (10×14).
With template, transfer markings to chosen piece of cardboard (choose the weaker of the two pieces). Cut out using a craft knife and straight edge.
Using wood glue (or school glue, which works fine too), cover the backside of the cut out piece of cardboard with a thin but thorough layer. Carefully line up the two pieces, rub firmly together. Set for one day to completely dry.
That’s it, your done!