Do you ever find that your spiral-bound notebook, after some use, starts falling apart? The back cover comes loose, and soon the pages begin to fall out one by one. Replacing it isn’t an eco-friendly or budget-friendly option, especially since, by the time this happens, the notebook often contains invaluable content. That’s why, in this tutorial, “School Supplies: Protect and Upgrade Spiral-Bound Notebooks,” I want to share a simple idea that will save you from all this trouble.
The Concept
The idea is simple: in most spiral-bound notebooks, there is a small gap where the ends of the spiral meet. Over time, this gap becomes larger, and that’s where the pages start falling out. By using thread to unite the ends of the spiral, you can eliminate the gap and prevent any pages from slipping out. Plus, if you use an attractive thread, the ends of it can double as built-in bookmarks. This easy DIY project will help you protect, upgrade, and customize your notebook with practical bookmarks that can divide the content.
Step-by-Step Guide: Protect and Upgrade Your Spiral-Bound Notebook
Level: Easy
Materials:
- Spiral-bound notebook
- Thread, yarn, or thin ribbon that complements the notebook (this will double as bookmarks, so choose something visible and sturdy)
- A needle that fits your thread or yarn (a tapestry needle or crochet hook can work if you don’t have the right size; as a last resort, you can do the work by hand)
Techniques:
- Cross-stitch (embroidery)
Instructions:
Cut a piece of thread that is approximately seven times the height of your notebook.
Start at the bottom of the spiral. Locate the gap where the spiral ends meet, and in the first loop, tie the middle of your thread.
Take one end of the thread and begin stitching across the loops, moving from one side of the spiral to the other. This will resemble the first part of a cross-stitch. Continue stitching all the way to the top of the spiral, leaving the remaining thread loose.
Flip your notebook over and repeat the process with the other end of the thread, forming an X-pattern as you stitch back to the top.
Tie the two threads together in a knot at the top of the spiral. Trim the threads so they extend slightly beyond the first page of your notebook. These will act as built-in bookmarks.
Variations
Double Thread (Four Bookmarks)
Complete steps 1-5 but do not trim the threads yet. Cut a new thread twice the length of the remaining thread after binding. Insert the middle of the new thread at the final top loop of the spiral and secure it with a knot. Trim all threads so they extend slightly beyond the first page of your notebook.
Plait
To add a decorative plait, use a piece of thread that is eight times the height of your notebook. Complete steps 2-4.
Step 5: Tie the two threads together in a knot at the top of the spiral. Cut two new threads twice the length of the remaining threads after binding. Insert the middle of the new threads through the gap above the knot. Divide the six threads into three groups of two and plait them together. When the plait extends past the first page, tie a knot and create a tassel with the remaining threads. Trim the ends evenly.
Macramé Knots
For a more intricate look, follow the steps with a piece of thread cut to six times the height of your notebook. Once you’ve completed steps 1-4, tie a knot at the top. Insert a new piece of thread, about twelve times the height of the notebook, over the knot. Use this longer piece to create macramé knots, with the two shorter threads serving as the base.
If you need any assistance with the macrame square knot depicted here, there is the video and the tutorial to help you out.
Conclusion to “School Supplies: Protect and Upgrade Spiral-Bound Notebooks”
The “School Supplies: Protect and Upgrade Spiral-Bound Notebooks” project is easy to customize and can be completed in a short amount of time. By investing a little effort into securing your notebook with this method, you can extend its lifespan and add stylish, functional bookmarks. I hope you enjoy the process and make the most of your protected notebook as you continue to create wonderful things!
