Easy DIY Bound Journal

I love book binding, but let's be real, some of the traditional methods can take forever.  Recently I discovered something awesome about one of my favorite products....It works PERFECTLY for quick book binding projects because it's flexible and clear when it dries.  Can you guess what I'm talking about?  The best thing about these journals is that you can use vinyl OR leather and embellish them any way you want.  I painted my edges with metallic gold, but you could embellish with a brass bird or gems.  Just remember to have fun, make journals and don't forget to Make Your Mark!

xoxo, Mark 

I used the Americana Decoupage Papers for my end papers.....because they

are beautiful!

See how easy they are to make here

Stuff You'll Need

Sewing machine

Americana Decoupage Paper (decorative paper)

E-6000 glue

11" x 17" vinyl or leather

Americana Stick On Stencils

Twine (that matches the vinyl)

Americana Multi-Surface Metallic gold

Pinking shears

Dauber

Clothespins

Office copy paper

1.  Trace a folded piece of copy paper on the inside edge of your vinyl

2. Move it over 1/2" and trace it again 

3.  Add 3" more and then 1/2" all the way around

4.  Cut it out with pinking shears

*This is the cover (with flap) and it will be about 14 1/2" x 9 1/2"

5.  Edge the vinyl with metallic gold using a dry brush technique

*This will give it an aged and gilded look

6.  Stencil on the cover with more metallic gold lightly dabbing with a dauber

7.  Cut decoupage papers to 8 1/2" x 11" and create a stack of copy paper with the decorative paper on top

8.  Draw a line down the center and stitch the pages together

9.  Make about 8 - 10 stacks and fold them on the stitch line

10.  Clip them together and add a generous amount of E-6000 glue to the folded edges

11.  Secure them in place while they dry

12.  Clip a small hole in the flap and add a long piece of twine for a tie