KAWU / one moment
Making space.
The next page is on its way.
paper craft
Accordion Paper Journal
useful
Create a compact journal that opens into a long, connected surface for notes, sketches, or small lists. A single concertina fold keeps the construction forgiving and makes it easy to use leftover paper without special bookbinding equipment.
- Difficulty
- First timer
- Time to try
- 75 min
- Craft
- paper craft
The workbench
Gather your materials.
Materials
- two 3.25 x 4.25 in cover papers
- one 24 x 4 in text paper strip
- 12 in cotton ribbon (optional)
- glue stick
Tools
- metal ruler
- pencil
- bone folder or spoon
- paper scissors
- clips
Skills
- measuring
- paper folding
- simple book assembly
A first look
Follow the thread.
Plan the eight panels
On the back of the 24 x 4 inch strip, mark lines at 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, and 21 inches. Lightly score each line with a ruler and a bone folder or the back of a spoon.
About 9 minFold the concertina
Fold the strip back and forth along the scored lines, alternating mountain and valley folds. You will have eight panels, each 3 x 4 inches. Align the long edges as you go, then sharpen each crease with the folder.
About 12 minMake a front and back cover
Choose which side of each 3.25 x 4.25 inch cover paper will face out. Centre the panel on each cover to leave a 1/8 inch margin on every side.
About 8 minAttach the end panels
Apply a thin layer of glue to the back of the first 3 x 4 inch panel and centre it on one cover. Repeat with the last panel and the other cover, keeping the accordion folds free to open.
About 12 minLet the covers dry
Close the journal and place a clean scrap sheet over each cover. Hold the layers with your fingers or clips while the glue stick dries according to its package directions, then open the panels slowly.
About 8 minAdd the ribbon
If using the optional ribbon, wrap it around the closed journal and leave enough overlap for a flat tie. Tie it around the closed cover without gluing so the journal can open fully and the ribbon can be replaced.
About 10 minOpen, press, and begin
Open and close the journal several times, pressing each fold in the direction it wants to travel. Use the first panel for a title or date, and leave the rest open for notes, sketches, and lists.
About 16 min