Smash Book Part 2

As I mentioned in the previous post, I decided to make my own version of the Smash Book by K&Co. I used materials I already had. After cutting the cover and pages, I added 4 divider pages (cut from Club Scrap card stock) and 4 pocket pages. I also stamped and punched out tabs for each divider.

I pulled out my Bind-It-All and a length of coil. After deciding on the number of holes/length of binding, I punched away. I had not realized how many pages I was cutting - so the book is quite thick! I  quickly decided to add a bit to the cover with decorative tape and rubber stamping. The above photo is of the closed, completed book.

When opened, you can see the divided sections and tabs. On the back cover, I attached ribbon to make a pen holder. The ribbon is attached with 2 small brads. To cover the backside of the brads, I made a vertical pocket for miscellaneous stuff. I think this is an easily translatable project. You can make journal, sketch books, appointment books etc. Many of you probably have the materials you need on hand.

A Smash What?

Recently, someone in my West Coast Scrap group posted information and a video link to something called a "Smash Book". When I checked it out, it was a spiral bound journal with pre-decorated pages.  Seems it has become popular - with its own line of accessories. So...as a maker of books/journals, I thought it would be pretty easy to make one.

I took two 8 1/2  x 11 pieces of cardboard (the type that comes in packages of paper/card stock so that it can  not be bent) and cut them to a 4 1/2 x 6 inch size. Pretty easy and basically cheap!

I went through my stash of decorative papers and pulled out a few. I stayed with a fairly neutral color scheme, with minimal design. I figure I might want to throw it in my purse for ideas, journaling, etc. I also cut some Wausau card stock for plain pages.

Finally, I cut my pages to size. I stenciled a few of the white pages (using ink and Glimmer Mist).  This took me about an hour to decide on papers, decorate, and trim.

Stay tuned for the completed book.