How to Organize Paperwork Using DIY Hanging File Folders
I'm going to show you how to make DIY hanging file folders. I turned two of my desk drawers into hanging file drawers for just a few dollars. It's an easy project that can turn cluttered drawers into a neat, organized system for your files.
1. Measure and cut
Measure the width of your drawers to see how long of a piece of metal bar you will need. Since I have two drawers, I need this times four. Cut the rods to fit the width of the drawer.
2. Gather supplies
This is what you'll need to create and install metal rods into your drawers to turn them into hanging file drawers.
You'll need a measuring tape, a rod one-eighth inch in diameter, and it has to be long enough to cover as many drawers as you need. You'll need a drill bit that is the same diameter as the rod.
You're also going to need a wire cutter to cut the rod, and you need a drill.
3. Measure the depth
Grab one of your hanging file folders. You're going to put it on the outside of the drawer to see how far down you need to go to ensure this tab clears the bottom of the upper drawer.
3. Drill holes
Next, you're going to measure down from the top of the drawer to where you need to drill.
Measure the other side. Ensure you measure where to drill the hole for the other side of the hanging file folder.
4. Insert the bars
It's super simple from here. Since you drilled the hole to be the same diameter as the bar, all you have to do is insert each bar into the holes.
There's plenty of friction to hold it in place. You can add a drop of wood glue or super glue to keep these in place if you'd like.
I found that I didn't need to do that.
5. Slot the files in
Now you can organize all your paperwork in an easy way.
DIY hanging file folders
That's all there is to it. You can easily create a hanging file system in no time for minimal cost and time investment. Do you have any tips or tricks to stay organized? Share in the comments below; we love hearing from you!
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This is a GREAT idea. Makes it easier to find what you want!
I need this! Thanks