Turn an ordinary notebook into a special gift with the addition of journal wrap! Wired burlap and pleated satin ribbons from May Arts, embossed Hollyhocks from Stampendous, and sparkly rhinestones add a rustic yet elegant vibe.

To make a journal wrap, start by choosing a notebook or art journal. Wrap the burlap ribbon around the notebook leaving a couple of extra inches overlapping.  Stitch the ends together as shown. Be sure the wrap is snug, but still allows you to slide it off and on the book.

Layer on 1.5” ivory satin/pleats ribbon and an adhesive strip of rhinestones and pearls. I used the Recollections brand from Michael’s. Be sure to start and end each element at the same place, so all the seams will be covered by the Hollyhock spray.

To create the floral spray, use black ink or embossing ink on a Cling Jumbo Hollyhock stamp from Stampendous and stamp on kraft cardstock.

Emboss the image with Shabby Green Embossing Enamel from Stampendous. When I use embossing powder or glitter, I like to put a file folder under the project I’m working on. This makes it simple to shake off the excess and then tip it right back into the jar. Easy clean-up and no waste!

Use a heat tool to melt the embossing powder, working from underneath as the product label recommends. Carefully cut out the embossed flowers and use foam tape to attach them to the journal wrap, being sure to cover the seams of the ribbons.

A shabby layered flower provides the perfect finishing accent! Cut or punch out 4 circles from sewing pattern tissue, then cut out a bloom from May Arts sheer/frayed /flowers ribbon. Crumple the tissue circles, and then layer all the elements together with a rhinestone brad. Use foam tape to secure the flower to the center of the embossed Hollyhocks.  And that’s a wrap!

A wrap like this would also be a lovely way to present a book as a gift. Simply adjust the measurements for the book you are using and give it to a special friend. Or keep it for yourself! Thanks to May Arts & Stampendous for sponsoring this fun project! For a download of this tutorial, be sure to stop by my blog Serendipity Vintage Studio. Happy crafting to all from Kimberly Jones!

Blog post by: Kimberly Jones