Updated on March 25th, 2025
AD – PR Product | April 23rd is World Book Day, and to celebrate, Viking sent me a box of craft materials to use with old book pages along with Book Art by Clare Youngs for craft ideas.
Before I begin, Viking is a UK-based stationery, office supply, and furniture company. They sell everything from pens, paper, and ink cartridges to technology and furniture, and you can receive free shipping on orders over £30.
After looking through Book Art, I was inspired to create my own notebook based on the Japanese Notebook craft. With my master’s program, I am always using notebooks to take notes during the lectures and readings, and I had 3 half-used notebooks sitting around. I decided to take those blank pages out and combine them into one notebook.
Materials
Directions
- First I took out the blank pages of the notebooks so I knew what size to make the new covers of the notebook.
- I then selected the color of A4 paper (I chose black), and I cut it in half with scissors. You may need to use bigger pieces of A4 paper depending on the size of the notebook paper.
- From there I selected the old book pages and decided on the layout for the front and back covers. I used Mod Podge to adhere the book pages to the A4 paper. I also put a layer of Mod Podge on top of the book pages as well.
- Then I used a hole punch to make 3 holes in all the notebook pages and the front and back covers.
- I then used yarn and went through all the holes to connect the covers and pages. I ensured the yarn was loose enough to turn the pages before tying a knot.
- As a final touch, I used the alphabet stamp kit and ink pad to spell out JOURNAL on the front cover. Since there was a layer of Mod Podge on top of the book pages, I was able to wipe away some of the ink to make it look a little aged.
As well as notebooks, you can use old books to create various other crafts from cards and bookmarks to home decor and cute animals. The ideas are endless!
I really love the idea behind this! I should really find some old books and get myself to work on it x
Thank you! It’s a great way to repurpose old books!
I love your choice of craft! The notebook has such a nice academia vibe going on ❤️
Thank you so much!
What a cool thing to make!!
Thanks!
I really love this idea – it’s so creative! I love that you made use out of the blank pages of unfinished notebooks to make a brand new journal, that is so resourceful and clever! The book pages and stamps really add that extra character and charm, it’s brilliant! Thanks for sharing the step by step guide Karalee, – really inspirational post! <3 xx
Bexa
Thank you! It was great being able to find a purpose for the blank pages & I loved how the book pages turned out!
I love, love, love this and want to make some of my own! Thanks for sharing.:)
Thank you!!!