✨ Handmade Journal Guide: From Digital Pages to Fabric-Covered Beauty

For the pages:

Digital journal kit (PDFs or image files of printable pages, tags, pockets, etc.)
Printer & paper (standard printer paper or 28–32 lb. for a quality feel)
Paper trimmer or scissors
Bone folder (or the back of a spoon)
Glue stick or double-sided tape
Ruler & pencil
Optional: distress ink for vintage edges

For the cover:

For binding:

🖨️ PART 1: PREPARING YOUR DIGITAL PAGES

Choose and Print Your Digital Kit
- Select your digital designs. These may include themed pages, tags, journaling cards, and pockets.
- Print them on one or both sides of paper, depending on your desired look.
- Use heavier paper (28–32 lb.) for a more durable and professional result.
Trim and Arrange
- Use a paper trimmer to cut out your pages and ephemera.
- Fold full-page spreads in half to form signatures (groups of folded pages).
- Arrange pages per signature (you can have more than one signature).
Embellish (Optional)
- Add pockets, tags, flip-outs, or washi tape before binding or after.
- Ink the edges for a vintage look. (if desired)

Cut the felt, batting or bubble mailer to the desired size. I use a 6 1/2″x9 1/2″ cover.
- Measure your folded pages. Add about ½” on each side for the front and back covers. If you are adding more than one signature add 1/2″ per signature to your cover size.
- Cut two cover pieces, the inside and outside covers
Assemble the Cover Base
- Lay your insert, (felt, batting or bubble mailer) on the front fabric cover, centering it both horizonally and vertically. If I am going to stitch, I use a little bit of glue stick right in the center part to hold it is place. If you are going to glue then just glue the entire piece to your cover.
- Cut the fabric so it extends 1/2″ beyond the insert on all sides. As stated above I use a 6 1/2″x9 1/2″ cover.
- I then repeat this same process for the inside cover.
Glue the Cover
- If you are stitching then now is the time to stitch. If I am adding pockets to the inside I clip this in place at this time and clip or pin it until I stitch.
- I stitch all layers at the same time (the outside cover, inside cover, the insert and the pocket material).
- If you are gluing all pieces, I use clips to hold the fabric in place while it dries.

Punch Holes in the Signatures
- Fold each signature, and the cover all together centering the signature to the cover and clip it with your binder clips or large paper clips.
- Use an awl to punch through all layers. (I also use my E’s Journal tool to make sure my holes are always in the correct places and using this I don’t have to measure)
Punch Holes in the Spine
- Mark where the signatures will go on the spine, if you add more than one signature or if you are not using the E’s Journal Tool.
- Punch corresponding holes with your awl.
Sew the Signatures (3-hole pamphlet stitch)
- Thread a needle with waxed thread.
- Sew through the middle hole → out the bottom → up through the top → back through the middle.
- Tie tightly on the inside. Repeat for each signature.

Add Embellishments
- Decorate pockets, tuck spots, tags, and journal cards.
- Use lace, buttons, charms, or fabric scraps for added charm.
Add a Closure
- Glue a ribbon under the back cover flap or sew on an elastic band.
- You can also use a vintage button and string for a rustic touch.
Flip Through & Enjoy!
- Your handmade journal is now ready to use, gift, or sell!