As you all are my fellow designers, builders, and tinkerers you may be like me and constantly have project ideas, designs, part lists, and everything else cluttering up your brain. One of the things that I have found that help me keep organized is incorporating notebooks into my everyday life. These small books can be carried in your pocket and used whenever inspiration strikes you. Rather than constantly having to buy dull replacements, why not make a creative one of your own using a cover from your recycling?

Step 1: Supplies

For this project you will need the following supplies...

6-Pack bottle carrier (any thin cardboard will do)
Printer paper
Scissors/ Xacto knife
Cutting mat (optional)
Stapler

Step 2: Cut Out the Cover

Using your cutting tools, cut out the front face of the bottle carrier. You will want to cut the cardboard as square as possible, you may want to trim it square once it is cut out. If want a smaller book, trim off the desired amount off of the bottom, ensuring it remains square.

Step 3: Fold and Score the Cover

Fold the cover over as evenly as possible. Using your hand or a tool, flatten the fold as neatly as possible. Once there is a defined crease, open the over up and use your cutting tool and score the crease. This will make it easier to open and close after it is assembled.

Step 4: Cut the Pages

Open the cover up and lay it flat on the printer paper (or any paper of your choosing). Trace or cut the pages out, making them as even as possible. Be sure not to add too many pages to the book otherwise it will not close properly and the pages will stick out the side.

Step 5: Assemble

Once you are satisfied with the pages, place them into the cover. While holding the pages, fold the pages at the crease as tightly as possible to keep them in place. After folding, you can staple along the spine (preferred) if your stapler is large enough or through the cover if you have a small one like me. Either method works well but going through the spine allows the notebook to open a bit easier.

Step 6: Finished!

You are all done! You now have a easy to carry notebook that is truly unique. You never again have to worry about forgetting your designs or anything else. Thanks for reading!!