How to make a Journal or Daily Planner

Step 6 Making the spine

So, front and back cover are done, next comes the unique hinge system. It might help you to construct it, if you knew how it worked. You have a front and back cover, but they are not connected, and they will not be connected via the signature (pages inside - basically...). We are going to make a small hinge that has "wings" of book cloth and a solid center spine that is free moving.

To start cut a piece of heavyweight cardboard (same as the cover) that is about a 1/4 inch shorter on each end (1/2 inch total) and as thick as the insert that you will be inserting. For sizing see my pictures.

Next cut a piece of book cloth that is pretty much 1 1/2 inches longer than the spine and about 3 1/2 - 4 inches wide.

You will glue the cardboard spine centered on the cloth and fold the excess on either end over to fully cover the ends and reinforce the top and bottom. Make sure to use your nail and push the book cloth flush with the cardboard.

Finally, cut a rectangle of paper (your choice, again, I used the background blue) that is 1/4 inch smaller than that of the current size of the book cloth with embedded cardboard. Then glue it on!

Whew! check out the pictures.