Make Your First Handmade Journal with Washi Tape & Simple Supplies
Turn simple materials into a colorful handmade journal with pockets, stitching, and a custom wrap-around cover.
Washi Tape Journal is a friendly first step into handmade bookbinding. In this free class, you’ll transform simple copier paper and an ordinary file folder into a real, hand‑sewn journal—complete with pockets and a wrap-around cover decorated with washi tape. You’ll see every step up close, so you can follow along with confidence, even if you’ve never bound a book before.
By the end of the class, you’ll have a finished handmade journal and foundational skills you can use in future bookbinding projects.
Thousands of makers have started their bookbinding journey with this project.
In Washi Tape Journal You'll Learn:
-1-
Making Simple Signatures
Learn how simple folded page groups (called signatures) become the foundation of handmade books.
-2-
Creating a Custom Cover
Turn an ordinary file folder into a sturdy, neatly sized cover that protects your pages and gives your journal a polished, handmade feel.
-3-
Punching and Sewing
Learn how to measure, mark, and punch your sewing holes, then stitch your journal together with an easy, beginner‑friendly sewing pattern.
-4-
Washi & Collage Techniques
Layer washi tape, collage, and mixed media elements to create a cover that feels uniquely yours.
-5-
Adding Handy Pockets
Fold and secure simple pockets inside your cover so you can tuck in notes, tags, and favorite scraps.
Ready to make your first handmade journal?
Beginner-friendly • Free • Self-paced
You probably already have most of the supplies at home.
GET THE FREE CLASS
Hi, I'm Ali Manning.
I made my very first handmade books over 20 years ago at the kitchen table, folding simple accordion books for my daughter. What started as a little creative escape turned into a lifelong love affair with bookbinding as an art and a calming, tactile hobby.
Back then, learning felt harder than it needed to—tutorials were confusing, the “rules” felt intimidating, and everything seemed a bit too serious. I created the Handmade Book Club (and this free Washi Tape Journal class) so you’d have a warm, welcoming place to start instead.
My mission is to make bookbinding feel approachable, joyful, and totally doable with the supplies you already have. I’d love to show you how relaxing and satisfying it can be to turn plain paper and a few scraps into a real, handmade book you’re proud to use and share.
Can’t wait to make books with you.