One Sheet Paper Crafts #1 - Using 12 x 12's.
Join me for a new series designed to inspire creative ways of utilizing 12" x 12" papers. In this project, we'll focus on creating journal basics that features pockets, a mini folder, and a mini folio. Keep embellishments to a minimum to build a versatile stash for quick journal making or crafting fun happy mail.
Here's what you'll need:
- One 12 x 12" scrapbook paper, medium to heavyweight, either double-sided or single-sided.
- Scissors or a trimmer
- Scoreboard or scoring tool
- Glue
- Embellishments and/or closures according to your preferences
Start by cutting the 12" x 12" paper into the following sizes. If you're a beginner, opt for a non-directional pattern initially, as it's easier to work with. I'll provide some tips in the tutorial for handling directional patterned paper.
First, cut the 12" x 12" paper into two pieces, resulting in two 6" x 6" squares. From the 12" x 6" piece, remove 1 1/2" from one short side of your choice, leaving a piece that measures 10 1/2" x 6". These pieces are now ready for scoring and finishing.
Piece 1: 6" x 6" - Double Pocket
- Score at 3" on one side. Then, make a 1/4 turn and score at 3" to the score line only.
- Fold along the scored lines and burnish. Keep the spine to the left and cut a small slit on each side of the second score line.
- Create notches on each pocket and glue or sew two sides to secure the pockets.
Piece 2: 6" x 6" - Mini Folder
- Score at 3" and then turn and score at 1 1/4". Keep your paper design in mind as this will be your bottom fold.
- Fold along the scored lines and burnish. Cut a small V shape toward the top edge of the fold.
- Glue the outer edges of each folded pocket.
Piece 3: 10.5" x 6" - Folio
- Score at 3 1/2". The larger side will serve as your cover.
- Turn the paper 180º and score at 2 5/8". Then, turn a quarter and score at 1 1/4". Keep your paper design in mind as this will be your bottom fold.
- Fold along the scored lines and burnish. Cut a small V shape toward the top edge of the fold.
- Glue the outer edges of each outside folded pocket and two sides of the center pocket.
For closures and embellishments, use the leftover 1 1/2" piece. The video and blog posts showcase some decorated examples. Tag sizes are 2 1/2" x 3 3/4" and 2 1/2" x 3 1/2" for the blue set.
Once you grasp the basics of this set, experiment with coordinating papers and mix-and-match techniques. Explore different pocket or fold orientations to unleash your creativity. You can also try combining or attaching each piece in various layouts within a journal.
One sheet of 12x12 paper offers endless possibilities for creating ephemera or card sets. Make one or two sets of each project, and journal making will become an easy breeze.
Happy paper crafting!