Recycled Notebook

Tools and Materials25 sheets of scrap paper
Paper cutter
2 pieces of 8 1/2-by-11-inch card stock
2 binder clips
Ruler
Pencil
Stapler
12-by-12-inch decorative craft paper
Bone folder
Double-sided tape

Recycled Notebook How-To1. Count out 25 sheets of scrap paper. Organize all written text facing up and in same direction. Cut sheets of scrap paper in half, 5 sheets at a time, using a paper cutter.

2. Cut 2 pieces of card stock in half with the paper cutter. Sandwich cut sheets between 2 pieces of card stock. Make sure all the paper is aligned, and then secure sheets to card stock with 2 binder clips on the left side of the notebook.

3. Using a pencil and a ruler, draw a line from top to bottom, 1/8 inch in from the left edge as a guideline for the staples. Staple down on the guideline.
Tip: If you're creating recycled notebooks in bulk, it's faster to staple both sides -- creating 2 books for each 25 sheets of 8 1/2-by-11-inch paper -- and then get the paper cut in half at a copy store that has a heavy-duty paper cutter.

4. Cut decorative craft paper to 8 5/8 inches wide. Fold paper in half with bone folder. Press a stapled-together stack of 25 sheets of scrap paper and card stock against the middle of the decorative craft paper to create a book spine. Use double-sided tape to secure decorative paper to card stock.

5. Trim edge of cover for neatness and fit: With ruler and bone folder, score about 1/2 inch in from spine; fold to create finished notebook shape. Excess decorative paper can be used as a matching bookmark.