Keepsakes
I was inspired by a nature themed keepsake mini album to create my own staggered edge ephemera piece.
The inspiration album had a ring binder to lie flat but I didn’t want to use rings so I made a hinge spine that will also lie flat when opened. There is no size for this book as I followed the width of my edge dies and then staggered each page. I made the hinge with card stock but to tuck in to another journal medium weight paper is fine as the card stock adds a lot of bulk.
I used some old scrapbook paper as a base and decorative paper from my new Clockworks Paper Collection and then laid out the pages appropriately gluing each to the mountain side of the hinge facing away from me. The paper in this case is just decorative but you can add pockets or tucks to any page. This book only took one 8.5×11″ sheet of decorative paper, I often use the sheets from these limited edition collections when I want interesting backgrounds for collage but still can stand on their own if I don’t want to add anything. This book is extremely versatile, it could be filled with patterned paper if you desire.
You can also use double sided paper. There will be one hinge edge across the back of the book. I made my hinge one inch wide but one half inch is fine and you can make your hinge to hold as many pages as you wish. I did not glue my accordion hinge panels together, it is flexible.
Each page holds a little envelope with writing paper inside that is stamped with inspiring sentiments for sending. You can also make a notebook for the back page if you prefer but I didn’t want to cover the paper.
This little book is perfect for a table top and can hold all kinds of collectibles including nature ephemera. The little decorative paper clip holds all the loose ephemera in place and adds another tactile touch. I hope you’ll give it a try.
Happy paper crafting!
