How to Make a Matchbook Notebook

This is from one of our readers Kelly Berry:

I read your blog about creative uses for leftover paper after printing coupons. Well, I wanted to share with you my little matchbook journals.  I make them as gifts (I sometimes give them to special cashiers after a big shopping haul as a way of saying thank you for their patience).  They are super cute and can be decorated in countless ways. I have included photos of the Step-By-Step instructions and a photo of the finished product.

They are great to use as journals, food diaries, notes, numbers, and even as letters- I have used my matchbooks to write letters to loved one. I wrote a letter titled: Twenty Important Things to Remember. I gave it to my youngest son as he left for college.  It was full of helpful hints about cooking, cleaning, shopping and basic life advice.

HOW TO MAKE A MATCHBOOK NOTEBOOK:

1. CUT paper into twelve 3″ x 6″ strips. To make larger matchbooks cut the length twice the width – 3×6; 4×8; 5×10.

2. CUT Cardstock (I use fancy thick scrapbook paper) 3 1/2″ x 7″. When making larger matchbooks cut the cover 1/2″ wider and 1″ longer than the paper.

3. FOLD the Paper strips in half and FOLD the Cover 1″ from the bottom and 3″ from the top (see photo).

4. INSERT folder side of paper into the 1″ flap of the cover. STAPLE in two places along the 1″ flap of the cover. Make sure the paper is insert evenly.

5.  Insert top flap into the bottom flap to close the matchbook.

6.  Decorate as desired – Enjoy!   I like to stock up on 3D scrapbook stickers when Michael's or Hobby Lobby have a sale and of course I use the coupons they offer online.