How to Make a Drawing Pad

Make a drawing pad from cardboard and string.

Whether you're a seasoned artist, or a budding graphic artist, a drawing pad can be a lifeline for creativity. A drawing pad allows you to sketch visual ideas quickly to expand on later. If you're an active artist you may find yourself purchasing sketch pads regularly. Making your own drawing pads will not only save you a little money, but it also allows you to fully customize your sketch pads.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Scissors
• Three-hole punch
• Cardboard
• Packaging string
• Graphite or charcoal paper

Instructions

1. Lay a piece of cardboard on a flat work surface. Make sure the cardboard is only slightly thicker and heavier than a piece of paper. Measure and cut the cardboard into two 8-by-11-inch rectangles. Lay the rectangles side-by-side. Feel free to measure larger rectangles for larger drawing pads.

2. Pick the desired paper for the drawing pad. If you are a graphic artist or illustrator you may want to consider graphite or charcoal papers. Measure and cut the paper to fit the cardboard pieces you cut.

3. Stack the pages of paper so they are sitting evenly with one another. Punch three holes along the top edge of the pages with a three-hole punch.

4. Place the pages onto one of the pieces of cardboard. Line the top edge of the pages with the top edge of the cardboard. Use a pencil to mark out the punch holes along the top of the pages onto the cardboard. Use the hole punch to punch the holes in the cardboard. Repeat this to punch the holes in the other piece of rectangular cardboard.

5. Place the cardboard pieces onto the pages so the paper is sandwiched between the two rectangles. Make sure each punch hole is aligned perfectly. Thread a piece of packaging string or ribbon through each punch hole. Tie a knot to secure the drawing pad pages and covers together. Cut off any excess string with a pair of scissors.