I find that even with a high-tech phone and my heavy use of a laptop, I still keep a small notebook with me at all times. They’re perfect for jotting down a number, a quick doodle in line at the dentist, or for that to-do list you keep forgetting about. These bitty notebooks are also excellent party favors. I made quite a few for Robin’s daughter’s birthday party this year.

Making your own takes just a few minutes.

Materials

• 5 pieces of scrap paper – at least 7″ x 3″
• 1 piece of cardstock or heavier paper (like a magazine cover) – at least 8″ x 4″
• A colored pencil, pen, or whatever writing utensil you have handy
• Stapler
• A straight edge (i.e. ruler, magazine, book, etc.)
• Bone folder (optional)

Step 1

Measure and cut your scrap paper. You’ll need 5 pieces of paper: 7″ x 3″. Use different styles of scrap paper to mix it up a bit.

Step 2

Next, measure and cut the cover of your notebook. Use thicker paper (like a magazine cover or cardstock). Cut one piece of this paper 8″ x 4″.

Step 3

Lay your cover down with the side you would like to see (once it is folded) facing down. Measure one inch from the bottom and fold.

Step 4

Now, measure 3 3/4″ from the fold you just made (at the bottom) and make a small mark or indentation with your pencil.

Step 5

Fold the cover down, top-down.

Step 6

Fold your 5 pieces of scrap paper (from step 1) in half vertically. You can also cut them in half, if you’d like, at the fold.

Step 7

Insert your scrap paper into the cover, with the folded end fitting snug into the bottom fold of the cover. Center your scrap paper.

Step 8

Staple twice on the bottom fold.

Step 9

Finally, fold the top of the cover, tucking it into the bottom fold, above the staples.

*You’re done! Make another! Make them small or super huge, and use completely different paper. Mix it up!