Easy Girl's Day Notebook Project

When I first saw the Sierra Pacific undecorated folder with notepad, pen, and post-it tabs, I knew that I had to turn it into a handbag. However, due to trips I put it on the shelf and only when I found the Imaginisce Garen Party Brambleberry Blossoms paper did I get inspired to make the project. Because the paper looked like cherry blossoms I thought that the notebook purse would be a great Girls' Day (March 3rd) gift.

I started by cutting the printed 12x12 paper into an 8x12 piece. Using Merikan tape ( the wide width), I adhered the paper to the folder, wrapping it around the bottom to cover the spiral edge. Next I used the Cuttlebug embossing folder to impress the alligator-look on the brown (walnut) Bazzill 12x12 paper. (You don't need to emboss the whole sheet.) Cut two 8"x 2-1/2" pieces and use the folder to trace the 'handle' on each piece. With a craft knife and ruler cut the sides of the two oval holes and use a scissors to cut the rounded parts of the holes. (Cut carefully so that the ovals can be used as the closure strap.) If desired all the parts can be rubbed with brown ink (Distress Ink) to highlight the embossed design. With Merikan tape adhere the 'leather-look' pieces to the purse folder. Finally add a brad to the front of one of the cut out straps and tape the other strap to the back to cover the brad fastener arms. Put an adhesive Velcro dot under the decorative brad end of the strap and tape down the other end in the back. If you don't have an embossing folder you can use faux leather paper or crinkle your own before adding distress ink. Also a button would work instead of a brad. This simple project will make good craft fair items because the undecorated Sierra Pacific product from Ben Franklin Crafts costs only $2.99! You could also make a fancier version with a monogram or hand colored stamped image for a special friend. Well, go make some smiles.....craft!