For this project we are going to make a handmade sketchbook that is 4.5 x 4 inches in size. It's the perfect sized sketchbook for drawing on the go.

Materials:

11" x 14" Paper: drawing, watercolor, or mixed media; 70 lb. or thinner
- Cut into 16 sheets that are 4" x 9"
Recycled thin cardboard: cracker or cereal boxes work great
Scissors
Awl or Push Pin
Cutting Mat or Piece of Cardboard
Embroidery Floss
Larger eyed needle such as an embroidery needle
Glue
Decorative Paper
Ruler
Bone Folder or Credit Card
4 Paper Clips
Binder Clip

Here's a link to find some of these supplies on Amazon.

We'll prepare our materials and then in the next lesson we'll begin to assemble our sketchbooks. Be sure to check the Projects & Resources section for written measurements I use in the demonstration videos to create this sized sketchbook.

Steps:

1. Cut your paper into 16 sheets that are 4" x 9"

2. Fold in half and put together into packets of four sheets each

- This creates your paper signatures

3. Cut your cardboard cover to 4" x 9" and measure as shown (see Resources for reference)

4. Create your sewing guide sheet (see Resources for reference)

5. Using awl or push pin puncture your sketchbook cover as demonstrated

6. Put your sewing guide on top of opened signature section and use awl or push pin to puncture each of your sketchbook paper signatures.

7. Measure embroidery thread as shown in video (see Resources for reference)

8. Separate embroidery floss into three thread sections and thread needle

9. Begin sewing as demonstration, tie off each section and trim excess thread (see Resources for sewing guide)

10. Glue decorative paper to cardboard cover. Place under heavy books and let dry.

11. Photograph your sketchbook and share it in the Student Gallery.

12. Take your sketchbook out for a drawing date.

Post Your Project:

Once your sketchbook is complete please head on over to the Projects and Resources section to upload your sketchbook photo to the Student Gallery. I can't wait to see how you personalize them and what sketching adventures you take them on. Be sure to add your Instagram handle if you are on that social media platform so I can share your work out on my IG account. I love sharing student artwork!

Leave A Review:

Then I'd really appreciate it if you took the time to share your thoughts about the class by leaving a Review. Your feedback is a key part of my growth as an online art teacher and I use those Reviews to help me develop future classes and tweak past ones.

Susan Keene

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