Description
This kind of accent stool/table retails for over $100. But since I made this with cardboard I could get this elegant look for free. It’s appearance is like wood, the design on it has laser cut feel. While it’s not meant for sitting, it’s sturdy enough to hold lightweight decorative items. It is perfect as a display piece in any room.
I used only materials I had around the house, keeping the cost at zero. This project is a great example of how you can turn everyday recyclables into stylish, high-end-looking home decor.
Materials List
- Thick cardboard
- Design
- Craft Knife
- Acrylic paints
- Glue Gun
- School Glue
- Brown paper strips or any other paper strips
- Varnish
- Paper napkins
- Gesso
- Quilting Ruler (It is big and numbers and lines are clear)
Dimensions of the stool : 12″ by12″
Video Tutorial
I recomend to watch video with written instructions for clarity.
Step-By-Step Written Instructions
1.Prepare the Cardboard Panels
I started with five cardboard squares. One square was used for the tabletop, and the remaining four were used for the sides and built-in legs of the table.
2. Transfer the tabletop design on one of the squares.
3. Next transferred the design for sides with inbuilt legs.
5. When the design is cut its time to cover rough edges with strips of paper napkins. I used school glue to stick the strips on rough edges.
6. When the napkins dry, I stuck all four sides together using glue gun. Using the ruler I made sure that the two sides are stuck in right angle . Then placed the top and stuck it in place using school glue.
7. Next applied Gesso as a primer on the whole structure. When Gesso dried, I painted the tale to make it look like wood.
8. After the paint dried, this is how the stool looks. I placed it between the two sofas.
Tips And Tricks
1.Keep angles precise: While assembling the sides of this cardboard table, make sure they meet at 90 degrees.
2. Use a sharp blade: Cutting thick cardboard is much easier and safer with a fresh, sharp craft knife.
3. Don’t skip the primer: Applying gesso before painting helps the paint go on smoother and stay vibrant.
4. Use school glue for adjustments: When attaching the tabletop, I used school glue instead of a glue gun. This allowed me to adjust the position for a perfect fit. Hot glue dries too fast to make changes!
Backstory
I was initially planning a mirror furniture DIY for my next project. But as I was browsing the internet for inspiration, I stumbled upon a set of wooden nesting tables with stunningly intricate designs. It was love at first sight!
Right then, I had a clear picture in my mind, a cardboard version with simplified cutout patterns. I knew I couldn’t replicate the full detail of wood carvings, but I was confident I could capture the essence using less intricate but equally beautiful patterns. After collecting some design inspiration, I finalized a pattern and built this cardboard table from scratch. I absolutely enjoyed the process, and I’m thrilled with how stylish and sturdy it turned out!
Inspiration for my project
Final Word
I hope, you liked this idea of making a decorative carved stool out of cardboard. This unique and elegant table will decorate any space instantly. And that too for free.
I’d love to hear your thoughts feel free to leave your suggestions or comments below! I have provided links to my other furniture DIYs below. Please check them out.
Happy crafting and thanks for stopping by!
Links To My Other Furniture DIYs
