Scrappy Journal Challenge - Book Reveal

Scrappy Journal Challenge - Book Reveal

Recently, I was invited by the Handmade Book Club to be a guest artist for a 5-day Journal Challenge to be held on March 11-15th, 2024. Below is my journal design. (A link to the challenge can be found at the end of the post.)

This journal was constructed on unwashed, white kraft-Tex as a base. I had experimented with printing on this particular piece. (The premise of the challenge is to use material you already have on hand.) On top of the Kraft-Tex, I layered several paper materials. On the inside, I glued a part of a bright pink, textured, paper table cloth I rescued after a friend’s party. I also used another piece for the spine of the journal. The pure white was too stark for the decorative paper’s cream base.

On the covers, I cut up 2” rectangular strips of Tassotti decorative paper, and gently folded them over, but not scored, horizontally. (I purchased this paper at Barnes & Noble in the card section. However, I could not find a link to this paper on their website.) I wanted the pieces to keep a 3-dimensional element at the bottom. I glued along the top edge of each strip to itself. Before attaching them to the book, I laid out the pieces to determine the spacing. I settled on 3/4” so there was overlap, but the design was able to shine.  Each strip was then attached to the covers, just along the top of each strip, with double sided adhesive. 

A scrap piece of 1/4" Natural cotton ribbon from Studio Carta was attached to finish off the top. On the front cover, I chose a favorite stock photo I had acquired and adhered it with double-sided adhesive, as well. The thread used for sewing is actually Artiste metallic embroidery floss in yellow gold. I used all 6 strands as one. I did run it through beeswax a few times before sewing. 

And lastly, I used my Decorative mini flag signatures inside printed on Blick Sulphite 60 lb., 9 x 12 paper, cut to size (this paper is long grained). The off white color was more complementary to the other papers.

If you have any questions, please leave a comment below. And I hope to see you in the Scrappy Journal Challenge.

Happy Book Binding!

Back to blog

3 comments

Thank you for the inspiration and finding an original, yet structured version of using scraps. You book sings to my soul.
Your second book just as eye-catching and “my colours” so now the mind is wondering what scraps need a new life.

Corinne Calder

It was such a joy hearing you share in the challenge today! I LOVE what you’ve created! Both books are beautiful! Thank you so much for the inspiration and encouragement!

Deb

You make me smile!! I love your Scrappy Journal. All the special goodies that you included in my orders of paper from you did not go unnoticed!! You go above and beyond!!!

Mizz Cheryl Richards

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.