How to Make a Recycled Notebook

This is a set of instructions on how to create a recycled notebook. I like being able to reuse items that may not have anything wrong with them. This is one way I have found that I can reuse not only left over craft supplies but also those pesty blank papers at the end of a spiral notebook.

Step 1: Gather All Needed Materials

The following is a list of materials you will need.

A) Book binding glue, I bought the cheapest kind (PVA For Bookbinding and Paper Projects).

B) Reusable Cardboard, Acrylic Paper, or cardstock for the cover.

C) Empty pages in a spiral notebook, loose leaf paper, or left over printer paper for the inside pages.

D) A pair of scissors or a paper cutter.

E) A ruler and pencil to measure out the size of the notebook.

F) A heavy book or weight to hold the notebook in place while the glue dries.

G) Optional: leftover card stock for spine of the book.

Step 2: Decide on the Size of Notebook You Want

I like my notebooks to be smaller but the size can change. for example;

A) small notebook measurements 13 cm by 21 cm.

B) large notebook measurements 17.5 cm by 27 cm.

Once you decided what size you want your notebook measure and cut out your cover.

Step 3: Measure and Cut the Filler Paper

For the filler paper I used old spiral notebooks from classes. I found unused pages and removed them.

Once you have the paper you wish to use measure it so that it is approximately 0.5 cm smaller than the cover. this allows the book to open without paper hanging over the edges of the cover. Then cut the paper to the specified measurements. If you have access to a paper cutter it would make this part a little easier otherwise use scissors.

Step 4: Combining the Cover With the Paper

Once you have the number of pages you wish to have it is time to combine them with the cover.

Make sure the paper and cover are flush where you want the spine. Then use the book glue to place a thin layer down the edge of the paper and cover.

Step 5: Add the Spine to the Notebook (Optional)

The next thing I did was add the spine to the book. This step is optional and is not needed to completed the notebook but it can add a little character.

First choose the material you wish to use for the spine, I used cardstock. Then apply a light layer of the book binding glue and attach it to the notebook.

Step 6: Setting and Allowing Glue to Dry

Finally, using a large heavy book or a weight place it on top of the notebook and allowed it to dry overnight.

Step 7: Warnings and Cautions

Be careful when using scissors they are sharp and can cut you. Handling the paper carefully is advised as it can cause paper cuts. The glue may be hard to get off other materials make sure and use it over items that it will not harm.