Homemade Sketchbook | How to Make a Sketchbook for School

Summary

This tutorial offers a step-by-step guide to creating a basic DIY sketchbook using easily accessible materials like cardstock, paper, and masking tape. The process involves folding the cover and pages, reinforcing the spine with tape, and securing the pages with a rubber band for easy addition of more sheets later. The video also suggests creating personalized sketchbook covers and hints at future tutorials on more advanced binding techniques, making it an appealing project for both beginners and those looking to expand their DIY skills.

Takeaways

• 📘 This tutorial teaches how to create a basic DIY sketchbook using simple materials.
• 📄 You will need cardstock or thick paper for the cover and at least five pages of drawing or watercolor paper for the interior.
• 🎨 Masking tape is used to reinforce the spine of the sketchbook, providing durability.
• 🔗 A large rubber band or stapler is used to bind the pages together, allowing for easy addition of more pages later.
• 🖌️ The sketchbook can be made from various materials like cardboard, matte paper, or cardstock, depending on what's available.
• 📑 The sketchbook is assembled by folding the cover in half and adding folded sections of paper, creating a signature.
• 🌈 Masking tape in different colors can be used for a personalized look and to reinforce the spine.
• 🔗 Rubber bands are preferred over staples as they allow for flexibility in adding or removing pages.
• 🎨 Students can personalize their sketchbook covers as a creative activity, using materials like duct tape or packing tape.
• 📈 The tutorial suggests potential future improvements, such as using a needle and thread for more professional book binding.

Q & A

What materials are needed to make a basic DIY sketchbook according to the tutorial?

You will need a piece of cardstock or a larger piece of thicker paper for the cover, at least five pages of drawing or watercolor paper, masking tape, and a large rubber band or a stapler.

Why should the pages and the sketchbook cover be the same size?

The pages and the sketchbook cover should be the same size to ensure a neat and uniform appearance when the sketchbook is assembled.

What is the advantage of using rubber bands over a stapler to bind the sketchbook?

Using rubber bands allows for the addition of more pages at any time by simply folding more paper and adding it to the existing structure, which is not as easily done with a stapler.

How does the tutorial suggest reinforcing the spine of the sketchbook?

The tutorial suggests using masking tape to reinforce the spine by applying it on both sides and folding over to create a strong bond.

What is the term 'signature' in the context of book binding as mentioned in the tutorial?

In book binding, 'signature' refers to a set or group of folded pages that are bound together, not a place to sign one's name.

How can you add more pages to the sketchbook as per the tutorial?

You can add more pages by folding additional paper and inserting it into the center fold of the existing pages or by using multiple rubber bands to create different sets of signatures.

What is the purpose of using duct tape or packing tape to create a sketchbook cover?

Using duct tape or packing tape to create a sketchbook cover serves to protect the cover from damage, such as spills or smudges, and personalizes the sketchbook.

What alternative method does the tutorial mention for binding the sketchbook pages?

The tutorial mentions an alternative method of book binding using a needle and thread to sew the pages to a sketchbook cover.

Why does the tutorial recommend using masking tape for the spine reinforcement?

Masking tape is recommended because it is easy to remove without damaging the cardstock or thick surface, allowing for adjustments without causing harm to the sketchbook.

What additional step is suggested for personalizing the sketchbook in the tutorial?

The tutorial suggests creating a sketchbook cover using materials like duct tape or packing tape as a personalization step, which can also serve as a 'getting to know you' activity.

Where can viewers find more information about the tutorial and the instructor's work?

Viewers can find more information on the instructor's Instagram at 'that art teacher underscore machado' and on the website 'thatartteacher.com'.

Outlines

00:00

🎨 DIY Sketchbook Tutorial

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on how to create a simple DIY sketchbook using basic materials. The process starts with gathering materials such as cardstock, drawing paper, masking tape, and a rubber band or stapler. The cardstock serves as the cover, while the drawing paper is folded to create pages. The sketchbook's spine is reinforced with masking tape for durability. The tutorial emphasizes the flexibility of adding more pages at any time, making it a customizable and long-lasting art tool. It also suggests using different types of paper for various artistic purposes, such as watercolor or charcoal paper, and offers a method for securing the pages with a rubber band, allowing for easy expansion.

05:07

🖌️ Personalizing the Sketchbook Cover

The second paragraph delves into the optional step of personalizing the sketchbook cover, which serves as a creative 'getting to know you' activity for students. It describes a method of using duct tape or packing tape to laminate and protect the cover from damage, such as paint spills. The process involves cutting, smoothing, and folding the tape over the cover. The tutorial also touches on the idea of bookbinding as a future enhancement to the sketchbook's construction. The instructor shares her plans to experiment with sewing the pages to the cover for added sturdiness. The paragraph concludes with a call to action for viewers to follow the instructor's art journey on social media and her website for more art-related content.

Keywords

💡DIY sketchbook

A DIY sketchbook refers to a handmade book designed for sketching, drawing, or note-taking. In the context of the video, it is a basic, rudimentary sketchbook made from simple materials such as cardstock, paper, and masking tape. The video's theme revolves around creating a functional and customizable sketchbook that can be expanded as needed, showcasing the process of folding, reinforcing, and binding pages together without the use of complex tools or machinery.

💡Cardstock

Cardstock is a heavy-duty paper with a card-like texture, typically used for making cards, crafts, or as a cover for books. In the video, cardstock serves as the cover material for the DIY sketchbook, providing a sturdy and durable surface. The choice of cardstock is highlighted as it sets the foundation for the sketchbook's longevity and ability to withstand frequent use.

💡Masking tape

Masking tape is a type of adhesive tape that is easily removable and often used in painting and crafting to mask off areas. In the video, blue masking tape is used to reinforce the spine of the sketchbook, ensuring that it can withstand the wear and tear of daily use. The tape's utility is emphasized by its role in creating a robust binding mechanism that allows for the addition of more pages over time.

💡Rubber band

A rubber band is a loop of elastic material used to hold objects together. In the video, large rubber bands are used as a binding mechanism for the sketchbook, allowing for the easy addition of more pages. The use of rubber bands illustrates a simple and adjustable method for creating a sketchbook that can grow in size as needed, which is a central concept in the tutorial.

💡Sketch paper

Sketch paper is a type of paper designed for drawing and sketching, often with a smooth or medium texture. In the video, sketch paper is used as the primary material for the pages of the DIY sketchbook. The choice of sketch paper is important as it determines the type of media that can be used within the book, such as pencils, charcoal, or light watercolors.

💡Bookbinding

Bookbinding is the process of physically assembling a book from an ordered stack of paper sheets. The video touches on the concept of bookbinding by demonstrating how to bind pages together using rubber bands or masking tape. This process is fundamental to creating a sketchbook and is discussed in the context of a DIY approach, which allows for customization and the potential to expand the book's size.

💡Signature

In bookbinding, a 'signature' refers to a group of folded sheets of paper that are gathered and sewn, glued, or otherwise attached together along one edge. The video explains that a folded section of paper, such as the five pages used, constitutes a signature. This term is crucial for understanding how additional pages can be added to the sketchbook, as each new set of folded pages becomes an additional signature.

💡Art supply

Art supplies are materials used by artists to create art. The video mentions various art supplies like cardstock, masking tape, and sketch paper, which are essential for making the DIY sketchbook. The choice of supplies is significant as it affects the sketchbook's functionality and the types of artwork that can be created within its pages.

💡Sketchbook cover

A sketchbook cover is the outer protective layer of a sketchbook. In the video, the process of creating a personalized sketchbook cover using duct tape or packing tape is discussed. The cover not only serves a protective function but also allows for personalization, making the sketchbook a unique and individualized art piece.

💡Art room

An art room is a space designated for artistic activities, such as drawing, painting, or crafting. The video mentions the art room in the context of the sketchbooks being used by students throughout a semester. This setting emphasizes the practicality and durability of the DIY sketchbook, as it is intended for use in an educational environment where it will be handled frequently.

💡Personalization

Personalization refers to the process of customizing an object to reflect an individual's preferences or identity. In the video, personalization is discussed in the context of creating unique sketchbook covers, which allows students to express their creativity and make the sketchbook their own. This concept is integral to the video's message of empowering individuals to create something functional and personal.

Highlights

Tutorial on creating a basic DIY sketchbook using simple materials.

Requires cardstock or thick paper for cover and at least five pages of drawing or watercolor paper.

Use masking tape to reinforce the spine of the sketchbook.

A large rubber band or stapler can be used to bind the pages.

The sketchbook allows for adding more pages anytime by folding and adding paper.

Using multiple rubber bands can create different sets of signatures for added pages.

Blue masking tape is used for reinforcement, but beige is also an option.

Reinforcing the spine with multiple layers of tape ensures durability.

Rubber bands are preferred over staples for easy addition of pages.

A sketchbook cover can be created using duct tape or packing tape.

Personalizing the sketchbook cover is a great activity for students.

The sketchbook can be used for daily art class activities or personal use.

Optional step to laminate the cover for added protection.

Future plans to try book binding with a needle and thread for a more professional finish.

The final DIY sketchbook is ready for use and can be expanded as needed.

The tutorial concludes with a call to action to follow along and create art.

Resources for more art lessons and examples are available on the instructor's website and social media.

Transcripts

this tutorial will show you how to make a very  basic diy sketchbook using simple materials  

you'll need a piece of cardstock or a larger piece  of paper that's thicker than your pages you'll  

need at least five pages of whatever material you  would like to work on whether it's drawing paper  

watercolor paper your choice you need masking  tape then you're going to need a large rubber band  

or a stapler if you love learning about art hit  that subscribe button so you never miss one of  

my weekly art tutorials starting out i have five  pages of sketch paper and a bigger piece of card  

stock that you're first going to fold in half  before you do this make sure that your pages  

and the sketchbook cover are the same size are  close to the same size you can also do this with  

cardboard you can do it with matte paper i'm  just using cardstock because it's what i have  

on hand in my classroom i'm using basic drawing  paper but you could get fancy and do watercolor  

paper charcoal paper bristol board or a whole  combination or even just do copy paper it depends  

on what you're going for take all of the sections  and fold all of them together in half there's no  

need to fold them individually the beauty of  this technique is you can add pages anytime  

by folding more paper and adding it to it or  even using multiple rubber bands to create  

different sets of signatures more on that later  then you're going to need something to reinforce  

the spine of your sketchbook now this is a true do  it yourself not fancy rudimentary sketchbook cover  

so i'm using blue masking tape just because i like  the color you can certainly use your basic beige  

masking tape for this and i'm going to tape the  spine on both sides folding over to reinforce it  

now the more you reinforce your spine the better  so i'm going to repeat these steps and i'm going  

to put another strip of masking tape on the inside  and the outside just like me if you get it crooked  

just take it off that's the beauty of using  artist tape is it's meant to kind of be taken  

off paper so it shouldn't rip your card stock  or whatever thick surface that you were using  

so i'm going to repeat my steps here as i said  and just double reinforce this sketchbook my  

students will be using this whole semester and  because i know that this is do it yourself it's  

not a sketchbook you'd buy from like a factory  or a nice art supply store i know that i need to  

reinforce it so that it can live in our art room  for the whole semester once i have two sections of  

tape on each side just fold over the extra section  that you have and you'll have even more reinforced  

paper then you're going to fold the whole thing  and you're going to use your hand or ruler  

something to really make sure that that tape bends  and if it's hard to fold that's a good sign that  

means that your spine is going to be protected  when we add our rubber band later okay so now we  

have the cover i like how the colors work together  and again use whatever materials you have on hand  

time to add our paper now a folded section of  paper i used five pages here you could staple  

this on the reinforced spine that you made that  is totally an option and if you know exactly how  

many pages you want go ahead and staple now and  you'll have a sketchbook that lasts a long time  

i'm using these giant rubber bands that i found  on amazon i'll put the link below so that you can  

see these rubber bands and i like them because  they're thick they're colorful and the size of  

them works with the paper that i'm using the next  step is so simple take the rubber band against the  

spine and the center the center fold of your pages  why i like using the rubber band instead of just  

the stapler is if i want to add more pages i can  simply fold a couple and put them as the center  

fold or these five pages folded together is called  a signature so if you've ever done book binding  

the word signature isn't like what you sign your  name to it's the set of pages so let's say you're  

teaching a year-long class or you're doing this  at home and you want to add a whole bunch of pages  

fold another set which is your signature add a  second rubber band put through the center fold  

there and then you've doubled the size of your  sketchbook so for this tutorial i'm going to  

also be adding a sketchbook cover the zentangle  sketchbook cover link above will talk you through  

how i did this and my students just completed  this assignment and my first days of school  

and they did an amazing job so it's really fun to  see these come together i'm using duct tape brand  

packing tape and again all my materials will be  listed in the description box and you're going to  

cut for me it took i think four long pieces to  go all the way across see my fail right here i  

was terrified that i messed it up i did pull the  tape and it didn't destroy my sketchbook cover  

but i did have some students that used a colorful  pen it did smudge their pen so i would say measure  

and cut your four or five strips of tape first  press it down really smooth and then you're gonna  

open it flip the extra tape over into the cover  to make sure that it's really nice and secure  

that way if there's a mess happening at your table  if you're sketching in your kitchen if you spill  

paint on your sketchbook cover it doesn't destroy  it and this is an optional step but i love having  

my students create sketchbook covers as a getting  to know you activity it's a really great way to  

spend the first week of school and it personalizes  a sketchbook that we'll be using each day in class  

i'm going to speed this up a little bit because  i'm repeating my steps it's just the tape  

smooth it fold it over and the steps are easy but  if you're really particular about things being  

straight and things being smooth take your time  because your tape definitely will fight you it has  

a mind of its own it wants to stick to absolutely  everything it's just doing its job and so i'm  

just going to use these pieces of tape to kind of  laminate my cover that's another option you could  

laminate these but i like my students to do the  work for themselves i don't want to be spending  

time after school standing by the laminator i have  like 160 students but if you're doing this at home  

or you know you have access to one and you're just  making one absolutely that's a great option too  

one option that i'm hoping to try out and level up  is to actually do book binding and take a needle  

and sew the pages to a sketchbook cover  i wanted to keep things really basic  

just because i'm starting a brand new school year  at a brand new school so i'm keeping this like  

really simple really diy could use you know really  simple materials but i'm going to try this again  

using a needle to sew and bind my pages in so  heads up for that so here it is my do-it-yourself  

sketchbook really basic with simple materials  that you can add pages to as the semester goes  

or if you're doing this at home and you just draw  all day long you can add pages to it as well so  

now this sketchbook is ready to fill with drawings  with brainstorming notes about famous artists  

ready for an awesome adventure thank you so  much for sticking around and making art with me  

and if you're interested in what my students  are up to check out my instagram at that art  

teacher underscore machado also check out  my website thatartteacher.com for full  

length lesson plans student examples and  anything else that goes on in my classroom

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