Covered Notepad with Patterned Paper
This class is a great intro to bookbinding techniques of making a wrapped hard paper cover using everyday materials. These covered notebooks make great gifts and can be made with basic supplies that you probably already have on hand.
We’ll start by creating some patterned paper to use for the inside and outside covers of your notepad. You’ll use found objects to stamp the patterns and learn a little about kinds of repeating patterns. You can also choose to skip over this step and use a recycled paper like wrapping paper for your project.
Next, you’ll learn how to cut your papers to the size to match the notepad you want to cover. Pattern pieces are also provided if you want to make the exact project from class. You’ll learn some bookbinding tricks to wrap the paper over the cardboard cover pieces to create a professional looking finish.
You’ll finish your notepad cover with a bead-and-ribbon closure which will hold it closed and provides a fun decorative element too.
There’s a materials list with everything you’ll need for this project below. In the lessons, you’ll find a picture-in-picture view so you can see both the instructor and a close up view of the studio table so you can see every bit step-by-step.
What’s included in this class:
7 video lessons, 59 minutes of instruction
Complete materials list, including options for using everyday materials instead of specialty tools
Step by step demos from start to finish
Large photos with close up views of the project
Lessons are accessible via your web browser on any device
What you’ll need to provide for this project
• Ruler, at least 12 inches
• Pencil
• Scissors and/or an exacto or utility knife and cutting mat
• Glue stick
• Book binding awl or pushpin
• 1/8 inch ribbon (12 inches)
• Bead with a large hole
• Post-it note or other notepad (I use 3×3 inch post-it in the class example.)
• Cap style pencil eraser or other mark making tool
• Stamp pad, any color to contrast your paper color
• Sheet of paper at least double the size of your notepad (I used a 9×12 sheet of newsprint/construction paper for class)
• Recycled cardboard like a cereal box or mailing envelope
I love beginners.
You do not need bookbinding experience for this class. Beginners are welcome!
I’ll share lots of tips for alternate materials and tools you can use to make the project the way you want to with things you might already have. There’s no wrong way to do it!
Every lesson has a comment block so you can ask questions. I will do my best to respond to your questions as soon as I see them so you can keep working.
This class works on your schedule.
In this on-demand version you work at your own pace, completing the lessons on your schedule whenever you want to. There’s a comments section in every lesson to ask questions if you need help.
Want to watch a sample lesson? You can watch the “Materials & Tools” lesson for free by clicking on the “Enroll in this class” button below.
Register now.
Cost: This class is $8.
Level: Intro/Beginner
About Becka, the instructor
Becka Rahn works in a micro-studio in Minneapolis. She creates pieces in fabric and paper, specializing in hand embroidery and surface designs using recycled papers. She has a Book Arts Certificate from the MN Center for Book Arts. She’s the co-author of The Spoonflower Handbook, a DIY guide to designing your own fabrics and wallpaper. She is passionate about helping artists conquer technology barriers to make their work more accessible.