DIY Toddler-Size Lap Desk

I made a toddler-sized lap desk to hold up our slant board in about 20 minutes today. I only spent one dollar on the supplies because I had the duct tape, saw, noodle, shelf liner, and hot glue already at home. So all I had to buy was the basket! FYI the noodle, tape, glue, and shelf liner are all available at the dollar store as well.

The noodle isn’t really necessary but it does raise it about 3/4” more and makes it a little less slippery on our couch.

I’m going to eventually make a different one, but this was needed TODAY and it was the fastest way I could think to get it done. I wish it were black, but this was the best I could do for now.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here's how I did it:

1.  Start with a shallow plastic basket, which you can buy for just $1!

2.  Cut out one side with a small saw or knife. (I trimmed the edge cleaner with sturdy scissors after I cut.)  

I have a small hacksaw that I got for $6 at Home Depot and I use it constantly.

3.  Toss the part that you cut out of the side.

4.  Wrap the edge in duct tape to get rid of any sharp or uneven bits.

5.  Cut a swim noodle to the length of the side of the basket and then open it lengthwise.

6.  Hot glue on a piece of shelf liner.  I rolled up another piece, so that it would prop up on her slant board more.