Upcycled Book Journals
from Jenn at Rook No. 17
Tools:
X-Acto 12” Designer
Series Ruler (metal)
X-Acto Self Healing
12x12 Craft Mat
X-Acto Designer Series
Precision Tip Scissors
X-Acto Gripster Craft
Knife
A pencil
Supplies Needed:
1 old book - I love the old Reader’s Digest covers
1 12x12 sheet scrapbook paper - I prefer a textured paper
100 sheets of paper, trimmed to match the size of the
original pages of the book
2 wooden paint stir sticks (free at most home impr. stores)
2 large binder clips
Elmer’s craft bond flexible dual-tip glue pen
Elmer’s craft bond multi-purpose spray adhesive (11oz)
A sheet of newspaper
Optional: Washi or decorative scrapbooking tape
Instructions:
1. Use the craft knife to remove both the front and back
cover from the book. Use the metal ruler to guide a nice
even cut.
2. Measure the height of the book cover, then mark the measurement on both sides of the wooden paint stir stick with
your pencil. Score both sides, along the pencil line with
your craft knife. Stick should easily break along the lines.
Repeat with second stick.
3. Tap the 100 sheets of trimmed, recycled paper on a flat,
hard surface to stack evenly and create an even, flat surface for the spine. Sandwich in-between the two wooden
sticks and clamp between the two large binder clips.
4. Use the large side of the flexible dual-tip glue pen to completely coat the entire spine of the stack of paper with
glue. Allow to dry in a warm, dry place for 15 minutes. Apply a second coat, then dry for another 15 minutes.
5. While the glue is drying, prepare the lining and binding for
the journal. Take measurements for the lining and spine
wrap to cut out of the textured paper. (You can find detailed instructions on my website for this.)
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