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This is a great Rainy Day activity because when you are finished making your lap desk, you'll be able to use it for so many other crafts. When you want to draw or color, just sit with your trusty cardboard box lap desk and you have your very own work space! And if you tape some envelopes on the side, you'll have your tools super-handy! You'll want to make this desk before you get started on any other crafts.

What You’ll Need

cardboard box,about 24x16 surface,and about 12" high (can cut down)
scissors or craft knife
strong packaging tape
adhesive paper (like "contact" paper)
paints and paintbrushes
construction paper
glue
markers, stickers and other decorative materials
large manila envelopes or left over gift card envelopes (optional)

Instructions

1. Tape the flaps on the top of the cardboard box closed very securely using packaging tape. If necessary, cut off the bottom half of the box horizontally so it is the right height for a child, about 12 inches high. Cut out two arches on either side of the box to create room for your child's legs.

2. Cover with patterned adhesive paper, or paint the lap tray if desired, or cover with construction paper, and decorate with markers, stickers and other decorative materials. You might want to use your packaging tape and attach some big mailing envelopes on the sides to hold a few pencils or crayons or note pads. Use your imagination!

3. Now you can sit in bed or in a big chair and draw, write, color or read using your very own lap desk!

Submitted by Leximom