How to Make a Leather Journal Cover

In addition to protecting the covers from getting worn, leather covers add a touch of elegance to books. The process of creating these covers does not need to be complicated. Even those who are new to leatherwork can create a cover that looks professionally made. After learning how to create a leather journal cover, you can use the skill to replace worn covers, cover beloved books or create gifts for family and friends.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Leather
• Cement glue
• Pencil
• Ruler
• Scissors
• Needle
• Thread

1. Place your journal, open to the middle, on the wrong side of your leather. Measure and cut the journal cover. Use a pencil and a ruler to measure and mark ¼ inch from the edges of the book, all around. Cut this piece out.

2. Measure the pockets. Measure the length and width of the front cover of the journal. Make a pattern for the pockets. Use a ruler and a pencil to draw 2 rectangles on the leather. The height for each will be the length of the front cover of the journal, plus ¼ inch and the width will be 1/2 the width of the front cover, plus ¼ inch. Cut these pieces out.

3. Apply cement to the short edges and 1 long edge of 1 pocket piece, for a width of about ¼ inch. This should be done on the wrong side.

4. Repeat the process for the 2nd pocket. Sew around all 4 sides of the journal cover, about 1/8 inch from the edges.

Tips & Warnings

• To enhance the appearance of your journal cover, you may sew around the edges with thread of contrasting color. You can also create designs in the leather with embossing tools. Beginners may find soft leather easier to use.

References

• The Boy Mechanic, Book 2: 1000 Things for Boys to do; The Editors of Popular Mechanics; 1915