Introduction: A Quick Book Cover for a Hand Bound Journal

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Make a quick and inexpensive cover for a hand bound journal or sketchbook.

Supplies

  1. Chipboard - three pieces, a pair for front and back cover, and a spine. Use the back of an old sketchbook, or similar.
  2. Self-adhesive "linen" fabric - find it on Amazon for about $10 per roll (One roll gives you enough for about 30 journals)

Step 1: Cut a 3" Strip of Linen From the Roll

Your strip should be 2x the height if your book.

Step 2: Set Your Linen Fabric Upside-Down and Place Chip Board in the Middle of the Fabric

The paper backing should be facing up.

Draw a line at the bottom and top of the chipboard on the paper backing.

Step 3: Gently Score the Fabric With a Knife

Be careful not to cut through the fabric - just the paper backing.

Step 4: Peel Back the Paper Backing From the Middle of the Linen Strip

Step 5: Place Your Chipboard on One Side of the Sticky Area, 1" in From the Edge

Keep it square to the edge of the linen as best you can.

The grid lines on a cutting mat can help to keep things square.

Step 6: Place the Spine 1/16" From the First Piece of Cardboard, Then Place the Second Cover Next to the Spine

If using thicker card, leave a bit more space.

As a rule of thumb, your gap should be 2x the thickness of the card.

Step 7: Peel the Paper Backing Off the Ends of the Linen Strip

Step 8: Fold the Linen Strip to the Inside of the Cover

Pull it tightly down and press to adhere.

Optional - work the linen down into the gaps between the chipboard at the hinge, so that the linen sticks to itself.

Step 9: Fold the Cover Closed and Open to Test - You're Done!

If the cover is floppy, place the chipboard pieces a little closer next time.

If the cover is hard to close or sits open, place the chipboard pieces a little further apart next time.

Enjoy your many new sketchbooks!