Custom Journal I

Made from ordinary composition books, these personalized journals make great kids' crafts and thoughtful gifts – especially when their covers are designed to inspire their contents. A color photocopy of a flower-shrub glossary graces Martha's gardening journal, but just about any type of sturdy, decorative paper, including maps and wallpaper, can be used.

Materials: Ruler Blank composition book Scissors Patterned paper Glue stick Bone folder, optional Craft knife 2-inch wide self-adhesive linen tape

Instructions:

1. With a ruler, measure the front cover of a blank composition book. Adding 1/2 inch to all sides, measure and cut two pieces of decorative paper to size.
2. Apply a thin layer of glue to the front cover of the composition book including the spine. Lay a piece of decorative paper patterned side down on a work surface, and carefully center the book's glued cover on the paper.
3. Turn the book over, and use a bone folder to smooth out any wrinkles; let dry. Carefully trim excess paper using a craft knife. Repeat process with book's back cover.
4. Cut a piece of adhesive linen tape slightly longer than the book's spine. Remove the tape backing, and carefully center the tape along the spine. Adhere the tape to the spine; use a bone folder to smooth out any wrinkles.
5. Carefully trim excess tape using craft knife.

MarthaStewart.com – Project: Customizing a Journal. www.marthastewart.com. Viewed on May 1, 2001.