DIY Custom Notebook With Mod Podge
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Personalize your office supplies and school supplies with paper and washi tape for a cute DIY custom notebook. This Mod Podge craft is easy to make to match your style.
Hello! I’m Keri from One Mama’s Daily Drama. With back to school season almost here, I’m stocking up on office supplies and finding easy ways that my kids can personalize them so they are unique. This DIY custom notebook is simple to make, so you can get creative and design one for every class.
I’m a writer, so I always carry a mini notebook just about everywhere I go. You never know when you’ll need to jot down a list, a phone number, or some other quick info.
I also keep our office cabinet stocked with notebooks for my kids to take to school and use at home. It seems like every year they need about a dozen of them for back to school, so this tutorial makes it fun and easy to create a custom notebook – or several!
How to Make a DIY custom notebook
You can use scrapbook paper and washi tape in any color or pattern.
What you need:
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Craft/DIY Tools Needed:
- scissors
- pencil
- sponge brush
- ruler (optional)
Supplies Needed:
- notebook – I used a mini composition book but you can also do this with a full-sized one.
- Mod Podge
- scrapbook paper – This one is similar to what I used.
- washi tape
Instructions:
1. Cut out the custom notebook covers
The first step is to cut the scrapbook paper pieces for the front and back of the notebook. You can do this one of two ways. (1) If you have a paper cutter, simply measure the notebook with a ruler and cut paper to size. (2) Alternatively, place the notebook on top of the scrapbook paper and trace the outline.
I used method number 2 and lined up the black edge of the notebook with the edge of the scrapbook paper. Repeat the process to cut paper for the front and back covers.
2. Glue the covers in place
Using the foam brush, spread a thin layer of Mod Podge on the outside front cover. Carefully place the cut paper on it and smooth it flat.
Repeat the process with the back cover. Be sure to wipe away any excess Mod Podge that squeezes out along the edge.
3. Allow the covers to dry
Place a few heavy books on top of the notebook and let it dry for about an hour.
4. Add the washi tape edges
Tear a piece of wash tape that is just a bit longer than the notebook. Carefully line the edges up with the end of the notebook and smooth it down. Fold the ends over the notebook cover and smooth them down.
Repeat the process to add tape to the back cover too.
When you’re finished, you’ll have a cute notebook that’s handy for school, work or home. You can easily customize all of your notebooks to match your other supplies or coordinate with school colors.
How to Personalize the Notebook
This is a really basic tutorial. Take this and run with it. Still stumped on how to creatively decorate it? Try one of these ideas:
- Add stickers
- Use more washi tape
- Add additional layers of scrapbook paper
- Cut out pictures from magazines
- Use plain paper and draw a picture on the cover
- Embellish with glitter
Make this DIY custom notebook completely your own, or decorate it for someone else. It’s a simple but thoughtful gift too.
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What’s Next?
If you enjoyed making this DIY custom notebook then you’ll enjoy these other back to school craft ideas too.
Easy Tassel Paperclip Bookmarks and Planner Clips
Printable Binder Cover Coloring Page
Kids Desk Organizer and Portable Homework Station
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