Ever wanted to start a new project, but didn't want to travle long distance to do it? This will alleviate your need to make at the comfort of your own desk.

Step 1: Gather Materials

Not very complex, just a stack of paper (used) and some tape (my preference: ducktape).

Look at the papers briefly to make sure none of them were meant for the filing cabinent. Don't worry about what is on the paper, but something interesting is preferable (a passage from the Aeneid).

Step 2: Taping

The idea here is to flatten the papers down and make them line up on the sides. It doesn't have to be perfect, but the more organized, the better.

Push down on one of the corners and frimly fold the tape over the corner. There are two general ways to accomplish this: use two strips of tape at right angles (more secure) or one diagonally (quicker). I made the top left and bottom right "double-taped" and the remaining corners diagonally taped.

There is an advantage to both types of corners in more than just the way they hold the paper. The diagonal tapecan be used as a paper holder as you can slip a corner of, say a notecard, under the tape and it works perfectly.

Step 3: Giving It Feet

A good way to prevent your pad from slipping is to add a few strips of tape to the bottom so that is does not slide while you are working on a project.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

I was planning to work on a project that required measurements (really out there, I know), so I added three measurement lines. The lines with half-inch marks are more useful than you might think. This isn't necessary, but is quite nice.

Step 5: Last Thoughts and Usability Notes

This type of thing can be found at a local office supply store, for a price of course.The beauty in this pad though isn't in its money or time (going to the store) saving attributes. Using recycled paper brings back retired thoughts and can be an inspiration for something new. Plus, it gives that old paper one more use before it goes to the recycle plant, which ultimately saves paper.

After the top page has been exhausted, just cut it off and go to the next layer. Don't cut too far down though because that will defeat the desk saving property of the pad. I also suggest that the pad isn't used to solder on or be used in any way with a project that requires fire.