Here’s a fool proof way to make a lovely fabric cover for any size notebook, diary or journal.
You can cover any size book by making your own sewing pattern and following these instructions, let me show you how.
Kit list – you will need:
- Notebook/diary (Case bound recommended)
- Fabric 1 (main cover)
- Fabric 2 (liner)
- Fabric 3 (Cover pockets)
- (Optional) wadding/interface layer
- (Optional) 30cm Skinny ribbon for page marker)
- A3 paper or 2 x A4 / cello tape / pencil / ruler 30cm+
- Sewing machine / thread / scissors / pins
Ready? Let's go!
1. SEWING PATTERN
Trace around the open book, add extra to the width and height of your book (for exact measurements see this project in my PATTERN SHOP.
2. CUT FABRICS
Using your new pattern template 3-4 pieces:1 x main outer cover
1 x lining
1 optional wadding layer
2 pockets (cut one main piece in half vertically to make 2 pockets).
(NOTE: If you wish to embellish your book cover do this now!) Consider adding an applique motif using my Applique templates and some BONDAWEB
3. POCKETS
Make 2 pocket pieces by cutting 1 main cover pattern in half (as mentioned above) then fold each lengthways to make 2 pockets.
This is how the book stays in the cover and the pockets look great in a contrasting fabric.
4. LAYER
Layer your fabrics in this order: 1. Padding? 2. Outer cover FACE UP 3. Pockets either side (Iron pockets in half wrong sides together) 4. Lining layer on top FACE DOWN.
(NOTE: If you wish to insert a page marker add a ribbon between main and lining fabric at center top seam now with main length of ribbon hidden inside the layers)
5. SEW
Join all layers together sewing the outer edge. Leave a 5cm gap (2.5″) in the bottom edge.
6. TRIM
Trim seam allowance all the way around to remove bulk inside the cover when you turn it through.
7. CORNERS
Clip corners to remove bulk when turning your book cover through. Be careful not to weaken your corner by cutting too close to the stitches.
8. TURN THROUGH
Turn your cover the right way out by pulling it all through the gap left in the bottom edge. Don’t panic if your pockets are facing the wrong way, at this point your book cover is reversible.
9. TOP STITCH
Test your book cover to see if it fits? If your book cover has wriggle room then top stitch all the way around the cover 0.2cm seam allowance which will tighten the cover up and close the gap.
If the cover is tight then just hand stitch the gap closed neatly without a topstitch.
This will also result in a reversible book cover… ooooh!
10. FINISH
Inset your book into its new cover and do a happy dance! Now decide whether it is too cute to give away, keep it and make another 10 for gifts.
I have my Christmas organiser covered in a festive fun fabric which really helps me get into the Christmas spirit each year!
For a printable version of these instructions head to my PATTERN SHOP
Now go forth and sew!
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