The handmade papers I am using to create notebook covers has provided new challenges. The specific concern is how the paper will endure regular handling and storage in a purse or other container that will probably have other objects in it. The point of making these covers is to make them practical to use.
So off to my local art store I went to purchase a product that would provide a clear seal of the paper. There were many choices. I came home with Krylon Matte Finish 1311. It provides a permanent, protective matte finish; promises non-yellowing, moisture resistance and a quick dry time.
Indeed, it was easy to use, dried very quickly, changed the hand of the paper but not the finish — just what I wanted. I sprayed both the decorative paper and the plain paper (used for the inside of the notebook cover).
I also needed to rethink the buttons and beads I used on the first cover. While attractive and quite fun to use on the larger notebook covers, these small ones may take quite a beating in a handbag — buttons and beads could snag on other things and the cover could be damaged. I’ve borrowed the idea of using elastic as a closure from the moleskin watercolor notebook I have. I think it’s a grand solution! Click on an image for a larger view.
Without the pizzaz of button and beads, this cover needed a bit of accent on the edging. I used portions of Jean Oliver’s Oliver Twists — her hand-dyed matching thread in these collections make finishing touches easy and fun. I particularly like the fact that these hand-dyed threads partner so well with the paper which has varied texture and color.
How to attach the elastic? My moleskin book has slits in the back where the elastic is inserted and secured in a way not obvious. I am not a book binder. I chose a straightforward method: I positioned the elastic on the back cover and stitched using a tight zigzag first in one direction, then shifting the cover to stitch a second time in the opposite direction. Click on the image for a better view of the elastic ends.
I stitched the elastic in place and then fused the inside paper to the opposite side. This way the stitching has more protection. Decorative stitches outlined with a shortened straight stitch give a nice detail while strengthening the spine.
Coordinating cotton fabric flaps hold the inserted paper notebook and also provide more strength for the cover and back boards.
I’m happy with these solutions.
You should be happy, Franki. It’s lovely and you solved lots of issues very adeptly.
I am pleased! Now to find some more decorative elastic.
Franki, I love the way you create beautiful things that are everyday necessities. Kinda like being able to stagger out of bed in the morning and look out the window at your view….just extraordinarily ordinary things!
Thanks Sherry! BTW, a recent trip to Sacramento had us missing you again. We went to the State Capital for a tour, lunched at the Delta King and made the stop at Sock City. I’m getting quite a nice collection from them.
hey, I just made a notebook cover too! I love the paper on yours. Oliver Twist thread is one of my favorite threads, the colors so organic. LeeAnna Paylor Not Afraid of Color!
lapaylor.blogspot.com
I love Oliver Twist thread! I have quite a few colors, but one can never have too much. Aren’t these covers fun?!
I love the feel of handmade paper and would not have thought of sewing it into a notebook cover. The stitching does a nice job of accenting and framing the paper. Have you thought of using some the colored and patterned elastic as an accent too? I think you will find the elastic band it a nice closure for a notebook destined to get shoved in a bag as it is less likely to get caught on something like a button would.
I will have to seek out the patterned elastic! I just stopped by my local fabric shop for the white — all they had. Any hints on where I can get it?
JoAnn Fabrics has them both in store near me and on line. It might not be in just the elastic section of store as I have seen it on an isle endcap near nothing related. Also, check for elastic ribbon and elastic cord. I seem to remember there being elastic trim/ribbon (whatever you want to call it) in the isle with trims and ribbon. Also, elastic cord might also be in a different section such as crafts, like for kid’s crafting supplies or in jewelry with cords and such there. Good luck.
I did check JoAnn’s on line and found lots of possibilities — as you mention, cord, elastic, ribbon, etc. — quite a bonanza really. We have a store nearby so I’ll check them out this week. Thanks!
Your welcome. 🙂