Masterpiece's Title: Fabricated Thoughts
What is it exactly?: It's a novel-sized journal made from plain computer paper, bargain-bin fabric, a paper bag and old buttons - all held together with yarn. All the materials easily can be found around the house (or dorm room).
Usefulness Factor: If you find yourself doodling or jotting down thoughts during class, this project might be for you. Carry this pocket-sized journal with you at all times just in case inspiration hits. All you need is 20 minutes, and a few odds and ends can be transformed into a creative little book, perfect for the emo kid in everyone.
Get Started:
1. Separate the paper into stacks of five and fold each stack in half to create "mini-books." Thirty sheets will give you 60 journal pages; use more or less to suit your needs. If you want to get really creative, use colored or patterned paper, which can be found at any office-supply store.
2. Cut the paper bag into a rectangle half an inch bigger than the journal paper. This will be the cover of the journal.
3. Cut the cardboard into a half-inch strip that is 8 1/2 inches long and glue it onto the center of the paper-bag rectangle. This will create the binding of the journal.
4. Fold the rectangle at the ends of the cardboard and punch four holes through the front and back near the crease.
5. Punch four holes on the side of the paper stacks, near the crease. Make sure they match up with the holes in the paper-bag cover.
6. Thread the yarn (or string) through the needle and "sew" the journal together by weaving in and out of the holes. Go through the paper bag cover and the paper stacks. Make sure it's tight.
7. Lay the journal open onto the back side of the fabric, fold and glue the ends down so it fits over the paper bag cover. If you want, glue fabric onto the inside cover so none of the paper bag shows through.
8. Optional: To make a page marker, simply cut a piece of yarn or string a little bit longer than the length of the journal and glue one end to the inside of the binding on the top. String a few buttons in random sizes and colors into a bunch and tie on the other end of the yarn or string. This will work as a page marker to hold your place so you can pick up your poem or other creative work where you left off after class ends.
Total Cost: Less than $3 for the fabric and needle.
Challenge Level: On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the Martha Stewart Challenge, this is a 4. The hardest part in this craft is "sewing" the book together and cutting the paper bag, fabric and cardboard into the right sizes. Other than that, the gluing and folding don't require any skill.
Our Thoughts: Every creative genius should have a homemade journal to record innovative ideas and drawings. Pull it out in class, at the coffee shop or at a local show to jot down your deep and insightful thoughts as you come up with them. This journal will help you win the battle over who is the most creative in your "unique" circle of friends. Whether you're an emo wannabe, think you're the next great poet or just love to write down every mundane occurrence in your life, this project is perfect for you.
