A couple years ago I made a desk set for my husband by upcycling cans and boxes we already had. I used some fantastic paper from Graphics 45 to make this handsome accessory set and it's come in really handy. I don't tend to make a lot of masculine styled projects, so this one was lucky to be kept so long. Today I'm participating in a blog hop as part the Buttons Galore and More design team and have joined forces with the Glue Dots folks to feature more great gift ideas for the guys in our lives. The official blog hop will run May 7-9th.
I decided to go with what I already love and update the desk set to show you how even guys can get gifts with buttons. When I went hunting on Pinterest to see what had already been done, I found a ton of dress shirts cards and wall decor with buttons… but that's about it. So, this should give you at least 2 more ideas.
Cover cans, boxes and notebooks with your favorite patterned paper. You can also line the containers on the inside with paper for a more complete look. Then add some dimension by adhering buttons to the pieces.
The glue dots stick really well to the buttons and hold them in place nicely.
Tie twine through each button and tie it off before adhering to your project. This will give a more complete and “finished” look to your project.
I used the same papers to spruce up the notebook as I did the original desk set and then added yummy brown buttons. I also added some twine that can be wrapped around the buttons to keep the note book closed.
I used buttons and twine to create a pen holder on the inside flap of the notebook. Simply string the buttons together using twine, making sure to leave a bit of a gap between each button. Then adhere each button in place. The extra twine will then be available to hold pens and pencils in place. Finally I added a little pocket on the inside of the notebook for business cards.
What kind of gift ideas are you planning for the guys in your life? Father's day, birthday days and graduation… all good occasions for a little gifty DIYing. Find more great project ideas check out what others are making today to feature Gifts for Guys.
That’s a cute idea! Guys need to stay organized too 🙂
Fabulous masculine desk set!
The buttons really add to these items. Great idea to use the buttons as a stop for the pens. thanks for sharing.
Wonderful desk set!
I love this idea! Thanks for sharing.
I love how you made the pen holder for the notebook! I make a lot of notebooks, but always struggle with figuring out a good way to include a pen.
I love to work with stationary products, this is right up my alley!
I love how we think a like with up-cycling them cans! Brilliant idea on how to keep the pen secured inside…may scrap lift that idea. BTW- your manicure looks FAB too, love the sparkle..teehee.. Holly 🙂
These are super cute and I love the colors of these projects! Penny
Love this! So super creative and useable!
Stunning!
Desk set is a wonderful gift for Dad.
great gift presentation!!! and any guy would like this one, there’s no flowers, perfecto…
I love the way you use the buttons to create spots to hold the pens. Brilliant. The whole package is very attractive!
The button pen holder in the journal is pure genius!
This is a fabulous gift for men. Your project turned out beautifully. TFS
Sorry, I meant to say I really love this project!!!! Awesome gift
That is really love this project!
I like how you covered the inside of the cans as well. That is very thoughtful! Great patterns too!