Learn how to make a 22 page mini pocket accordion notebook using scrap paper and easy to find materials. In this class you can make your notebook any size to fit your needs. Use it for journaling, note taking, scrapbooking or a mini instant photo album- perfect for remembering special events, occasions or monthly affirmations.
Materials:
- Cutting Mat
- Metal Ruler
- Fiskars Scissors
- Bone Folder
- Fiskars Deluxe Paper Trimmer
- Fiskars Heavy-Duty Easy Change Detail Knife
- Decorative Cardstock
- Chipboard Sheet or Thin Cardboard
- White Cardstock or Computer Paper
- Craft Glue or Mod Podge
- Paint Brush
- Ribbon
Join our FREE online class teaching how to make this!! January 17th!
Step 1: Choose and Prepare Your Paper
The paper you choose will depend on the final look and feel you want for your accordion book. For a simple book, you can use a standard piece of printer paper or thicker paper like cardstock if you want something sturdier. If you plan on doing watercolor or mixed media, watercolor paper is a great choice.
Cut the Paper: Start by cutting your paper into strips. The length of each strip will determine the height of your book, and the width will be the “pages.” We used 3 strips – 3.75” x 11”
Step 2: Fold the paper into an accordion
- Fold the strips in 4ths. Start by folding the strip into the center and then fold each half in half again. Using a bone folder l (or even the the handles of a pair of scissors), gently score along each of the fold you made. Scoring helps you make crisp, straight folds and prevents the paper from tearing.
- Starting from one end, carefully fold along the scored lines in an accordion style (alternating the direction of the folds—one fold toward you, the next away from you, and so on).
This process will create a series of “pages” that expand when the book is opened, giving the book its signature accordion style.
Step 3: Attach the Strips Together
- Cut two 1-inch wide strips of decorative paper. The length doesn’t matter too much, it just needs to be taller than the height of your pages.
- Draw a line down the middle of one of the strips, dividing it in half. Score this line with the tip of your bone folder, using the ruler as a guide. Fold the strip in half, then flatten the fold with the bone folder. Repeat with the other strip.
- Next, lay out your accordion pages end to end, making sure all the pages are laid out the same way. The ends of each accordion should be facing up and should meet the previous accordion.
- Apply a thin layer of Mod Podge to the inverted side of one of the thin strips, and then align the edge of one of the pages with the strip’s fold (the part that’s sticking up goes face-down into the fold). Press to attach it, and then repeat with the next section.
- Allow the glue to dry completely before moving on.
Step 4: Add Covers and Ribbon
To give your accordion book a more finished look, add covers to the front and back.
- Choose a heavier weight paper for the covers (like cardboard, chipboard, or a thick sheet of cardstock). Cut two pieces that are slightly larger than the accordion book (around ½ inch bigger than your folded paper on all sides).
- Cut two pieces of decorative paper about an inch bigger than your chipboard.
- Next, cut a wide “V” from all corners of the decorative paper.
- Apply craft glue to the backs of the decorative paper and center the chipboard and fold the cut pieces down.
- Cut a long piece of ribbon and lay it in the center of one of the book covers.
- Apply glue to the edges of your accordion stacked paper and attach the covers. Make sure the covers are centered, and press down to ensure a strong bond.
- Add
Step 6: Decorate Your Book
Now comes the fun part—decorating your accordion book! There are endless ways to personalize your book.
- Paint or draw: Use markers, pens, watercolors, or acrylic paints to add illustrations, designs, or even write a story. If you’re making a journal, you can fill the pages with thoughts or sketches.
- Add embellishments: Try using washi tape, stickers, fabric, or even photographs to embellish the pages. You can also experiment with mixed media or collage for a more creative look.
- Write a story: If you’ve made an accordion book for storytelling, this is where you’ll write or draw your narrative across the pages.
Step 7: Bind the Book (Optional)
If you’d like to keep your accordion book permanently together, you can bind it with thread. Here’s a simple method:
- Align your pages: Make sure your accordion book is neatly folded and all pages are aligned.
- Punch holes: Use a hole punch or an awl to create evenly spaced holes along one edge of the book (this is usually the side where you want the binding to be).
- Sew the binding: Thread a needle and sew through the holes, securing the pages. You can use a simple running stitch or a more elaborate stitch like a saddle stitch.
- Tie off the thread: Once you’ve sewn all the way through, tie off the ends of the thread.
Step 8: Enjoy Your Finished Accordion Book
Now that your accordion book is complete, take a moment to admire your work! You can now fill it with your own creative stories, artwork, or use it as a special gift for someone.
An accordion book is a wonderful, customizable project that can be used for a variety of purposes—journaling, sketching, storytelling, or even as a display piece. Its flexibility makes it a fun craft for people of all ages and skill levels!
Tips for Creating a Stunning Accordion Book:
- Experiment with different paper textures: Try using textured or colored paper to add depth to your book.
- Consider the narrative flow: If you’re using your accordion book for storytelling, think about how the visual elements or words will flow as the book is opened.
- Keep it simple: Sometimes less is more!
Happy crafting, and enjoy the process of bringing your accordion book to life!
