No idea what #31DaysofDIY is? It’s a brand new tradition here at Brit + Co that’s all about kicking off the new year right. We’ve challenged ourselves to make or learn something new every single day for the month of January, and we’re inviting all of you along for the ride. From DIY basics like Sewing 101 to learning to design and laser cut our own stencils, we hope this month of making inspires you to get creative all year long.

Materials:

– Brit + Co printable covers (download here)

– printer paper

– card stock

– embroidery floss

Tools:

– cutting mat

– box cutter

– embroidery needle

– awl

– straight edge

Instructions:

First prepare your paper. Take seven pieces of printer paper (or heavier paper if you want to write or draw in your notebook with markers) and fold them in half. With such a thick pile, you might need to fold them individually and then stack them, lining up the folds so that they’re spooning ;). Next, print your patterned Brit + Co printables and fold them in half. One is for the cover and the other can be a secret fun page inside.

Now take your awl and poke five equidistant holes through your notebook. This will make stitching much easier.

Following the photos above, weave your embroidery floss through the holes.

When you get to the end, tie the end of your embroidery floss to the loose piece on the other end of your knot.

At this point you will notice that your edges are not lined up. Take your box cutter (or an X-acto knife) and straight edge, and cut through the notebook, creating an even edge. Do the top and bottom as well as the side. That’s it!

Time to get creative.

Or you can make a few more and give them to your friends.

Throw this cutie in your purse and take it to a coffee shop for a writing sesh.

How do you use notebooks? Share with us on Instagram.