How to Make Your Own DIY Journal Book (That You’ll Actually Want to Use)

Ever stared at a blank notebook in a store and thought, “I could totally make this myself”? You’re not alone—and guess what? You absolutely can.

Whether you’re into dreamy bullet pages, chaotic scrapbook-style spreads, or minimalist reflections, crafting your own DIY journal book isn’t just a fun weekend project—it’s a mini act of rebellion against mass-produced mediocrity. Let’s walk through how to make one that feels like you on paper.

📒 Why Make a DIY Journal Book?

Let’s be real—buying a journal is easy. But making your own? That’s where the magic happens.

You get to:

• Choose paper that doesn’t ghost or bleed.
• Customize the size, layout, and aesthetic.
• Use up random supplies you’ve hoarded (yes, we see your washi tape drawer).
• Actually enjoy journaling because your book feels right.

🧵 Materials You’ll Need (Keep It Chill)

You don’t need a studio or a sewing machine. Just a few tools, which you probably have lying around:

• Paper (printer paper, recycled sheets, watercolor paper—mix it up)
• Cardstock or chipboard for the cover
• Decorative paper or fabric for flair
• Glue stick or double-sided tape
• Needle + thread or stapler (for binding)
• Ruler, pencil, scissors or craft knife
• Optional: Washi tape, stickers, stamps, or pressed flowers for decorating

✂️ Step-by-Step: Your Beginner-Friendly DIY Journal Tutorial

1. Choose Your Paper Vibe

Decide on the paper type and size. Standard A5 is super popular, but you do you. Want a sketchbook feel? Go for thicker sheets. Love writing? Use lightweight, smooth paper.

2. Stack and Fold

Cut your papers to the same size. Stack them in small groups (called “signatures”) and fold them in half. Each signature = one chunk of your future journal.

👉 Pro tip: Use 4-5 sheets per signature. Too many = bumpy pages.

3. Create Your Cover

Cut a piece of cardstock or chipboard slightly larger than your pages. Wrap it in fabric, decorative paper, or even an old map. Go wild.

4. Bind It All Together

There are 3 easy binding methods:

• Staple Bind: Staple the spine. Easiest. Great for smaller journals.
• Pamphlet Stitch: Sew one signature with a needle + thread. Pretty and sturdy.
• Coptic Stitch (intermediate): Let the spine show. Opens flat. Looks impressive.

YouTube or Pinterest has plenty of visuals—search “pamphlet stitch journal tutorial” for a good starter.

5. Personalize Like a Pro

Decorate the inside covers. Add tabs. Make a pocket. Stamp your initials. Tape a quote to the first page.

Whatever makes you smile when you flip it open.

🎨 Journal Design Styles to Try

Here’s where your journal really becomes a mirror of your mind.

✧ The Artsy Sketchbook

For doodlers, painters, and visual thinkers. Use mixed media paper, add a pen loop, and decorate with ink splashes and texture.

✧ The Minimalist Writer’s Notebook

Clean, classic, calming. Go black-and-white with subtle accents. Use dot grid or lined paper.

✧ The Scrapbook-Style Memory Keeper

Glue in photos, ticket stubs, pressed leaves. Use kraft paper and a thick spine. Think visual storytelling.

✧ The Bullet Planner Hybrid

Organize your life in style. Add habit trackers, mood logs, and future logs with hand-drawn headers.

📸 Visuals You Should Include in Your Blog Post

To make this pop, include:

• Flatlay of materials: Show paper, scissors, glue, etc.
• Step-by-step photos: Folding, binding, decorating.
• Finished journal examples: Showcase 2–3 journal styles (artsy, minimal, scrapbook).
• Close-ups: Stitches, pocket folds, decorated pages.

Bonus tip? Record a short reel or TikTok-style video to repurpose for Instagram or Pinterest.

💌 Want More Crafty Inspiration?

If this post has you itching to raid your art drawer, I’ve got more DIY goodness waiting.
👉 Subscribe to my newsletter for weekly tutorials, behind-the-scenes tips, and the occasional glitter mishap.

No spam. Just glue, paper, and beautiful chaos.

✎ Final Thoughts: Why Your Journal Matters

In a world full of algorithms and pixels, taking the time to craft something with your hands is kind of radical. A DIY journal isn’t just a notebook—it’s a container for your thoughts, memories, messy sketches, and quiet moments.

Now go make something beautiful. Or weird. Or both.