How to Make Wood Journals
People record their most personal thoughts in journals. Opening a journal cover and putting pen to paper is a spiritual moment. People can find it difficult locating an appealing journal. One solution is to make one. Wood journals allow for customization. Once the basic steps of making a wood journal are understood, use creativity to customize your journal.
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Things You'll Need
- 2 1/8- by 8- by 8-inch sheets of hardwood plywood
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Table saw
- 120-grit sandpaper
- Small hinges, set of two with screws
- 1 ¼-inch scrapbook screw post kit
- Drill
- ¼-inch drill bit
- Screwdriver
- 10 8- by 8-inch scrapbook/journal pages
- Wood finish of choice
Instructions
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1
Set up the table saw to cut 1 inch from one sheet of the hardwood plywood. The two pieces will form the journal's cover. Sand both pieces with 120-grit sandpaper. Take the other sheet of hardwood plywood and sand with 120-grit sandpaper. This piece forms the journal's bottom.
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2
Center a scrapbook/journal page on the bottom. Mark where the holes line up. Align the 1-inch section of the top so it's centered where the holes line up. Mark where the holes line up on this piece. Drill both sections of wood using a drill and ¼-inch drill bit. Sand the drilled holes with 120-grit sandpaper.
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3
Apply a wood finish to pieces of wood. Let them dry. Assemble the rest of the journal.
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4
Lay out the 1-inch cover strip with the other part of the cover to form an 8-by-8-inch square on the work surface. Measure and mark 1½ inches from each end of the seam where the sections meet. Place the hinge on the inside edge of the pencil mark. Use a screwdriver and screws to attach the hinge to the cover.
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Place the bottom of the scrapbook screw post through the back of the journal. Add the journal's pages. Align and place the assembled cover over the bottom screw post. Insert the top screw post through the cover. Screw tightly into each screw post.
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Tips & Warnings
Draw or paint a design on the journal's cover. Experiment with other types of wood to create a variety of journal styles.
Always wear safety glasses when working with wood. Follow tool safety instructions.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit desk and table lamp with journal with asian design image by nextrecord from Fotolia.com
