Creating a Four-Pocket Folder
If you're not big on using ephemera pages from scrapbook paper pads, here's a fun project using them as an overall pattern to craft a four-pocket folder. Whether you opt for single-sided or double-sided paper, this project offers ample storage and a unique offset cover design.
Materials Needed:
- One 12×12″ scrapbook paper (single or double-sided)
- Scoreboard or scoring tool
- Punches
- Glue
- Scissors
Instructions:
Preparation: Begin by selecting your 12×12″ scrapbook paper. It's helpful to choose non-directional paper, but either single or double-sided will work.Scoring: Score the paper at the 6-inch mark along one side. Make a quarter turn and score at 5″ and 10″.
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Folding: Fold the paper at the 6-inch mark, fold and burnish at the other two score lines as well. Cut a V-notch on the 2-inch fold for the folder center.
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Cutting: From the left side, cut the paper to the center scoreline (6″). Arrange the paper on the scoreboard and score another 3/4″ fold on the left side to create a small flap. Remove the tiny corner piece.
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Assembly: If using single-sided paper and you wish to cover the white space, glue that in place before proceeding. Punch or angle the corners of the flap as desired and glue your left pocket.
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Pocket Creation: Fold the right top flap forward and down to create the large right pocket, notch the top right side. Fold the remaining left side flap to make a smaller center pocket. Glue all pieces together, trim a small sliver from the center pocket, and notch it as shown in the tutorial.
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Final Touches: Glue the right pocket at the 6-inch fold to prevent items from sliding through. Your folder is now complete!
Closure Tip: Consider using a corner bookmark for closure. A 3″ strip works, but a larger strip (e.g., 3.5″ or 4″) might be more effective.
Storage Solution: Include small bits of coordinating paper inside the folder to create ephemera for future use, reducing scrap paper clutter.
Using ephemera scrapbook paper as a pattern adds a whimsical touch to each page of your folder.
Happy paper crafting!