5 DIY Recycled Notebooks

Don’t you just love a fresh notebook? There’s something about a bundle of blank pages that really jumpstarts my creativity. Notebooks are handy, too. How many times have you had to rummage through your purse for a scrap of paper to write down an idea or an email address?

The problem with many store-bought notebooks is that they’re often made from virgin paper, which means you’re cutting down new trees for that grocery list or to write down your latest craft project inspiration. Store bought notebooks also just plain lack character, don’t they? Instead of hitting the big box store, why not whip up your very own notebook from recycled materials? Here are a few projects to get you started!

1. Matchbook Notepad. Holy moly! How adorable is this matchbook notepad over at Design Sponge? It’s a simple as it is sweet!

2. Recycled Notebook from Scrap Paper. This recycled notebook tutorial from Grow and Make is super versatile. You can use any reclaimed paper you want!

3. Miniature Junk Mail Notebook. I shared a tutorial last week on how to make a notepad from old security envelopes. Really, though, you could use any reclaimed paper you have handy to make this miniature notebook.

4. Ribbon-Bound Recycled Notebook. At From the Blue Shed, you can learn how to make a recycled notebook from an empty cereal box. The ribbon binding is precious, isn’t it?

5. Simple Pocket Notebook. I’m loving this pocket-sized notebook from Esprit Cabane. She offers you two options to bind these recycled notebooks.

Have you guys made any fun, recycled notebooks or journals? I’d love to hear about them in the comments!