DIY Stacked Notepad: How to Make a Multi-Layer Notepad with PVA Glue

How to Make a DIY Stacked Notepad with Three Layers

This DIY stacked notepad tutorial shows you how to combine three separate notepad sections into one compact, layered pad using PVA glue binding. Each layer sits at a different height, giving you quick access to different page types — like a to-do list on top, a brain dump section in the middle, and lined notes at the bottom — all without flipping through pages.

The stacked design is a creative twist on traditional notepads that makes it easy to organize multiple planning categories in one place. Because each section is glued independently, you can mix and match page sizes, templates, and paper types to create a notepad that fits your exact workflow. This project works great as a desk organizer, a gift, or even a product to sell on Etsy.

In this step-by-step guide, you will learn how to print your inserts, cut each layer to the correct size, apply PVA glue for a clean binding on each section, and stack all three notepads onto a single chipboard backing. The process is simple and uses basic supplies you probably already have at home. For more notepad design inspiration and selling tips, check our guide to decorating and selling custom notepads.

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Template

How to Export PDF

Single Page Version: Go to Save/Export -> Selected Page -> Paper -> Select A6 (for Single Page) -> Do not Rearrange -> Click Batch Generate PDF

Double Page Version: Go to Save/Export -> Selected Page -> Paper -> Select A4 or US Letter (for Double Page) -> Do not Rearrange -> Click Batch Generate PDF

How to Print PDF

Download the Free Adobe Acrobat Reader program for printing.

This project includes three notepads in different sizes, each with 80 pages—so you’ll need a total of 240 printed pages. You can print fewer if you prefer a thinner stack. Make sure to print at 100% scale. The PDF can be exported in two versions: a double-page version and a single-page version. If you use the double-page file, print on A4 or US Letter paper—each sheet includes two designs, so you only need to print half the amount. If you use the single-page version (recommended for A5 paper), simply print each notepad design 80 times.

You will need

Materials:

Chipboard 1.4mm or any thickness
Regular Paper 80gsm or any thickness
Double-sided tape

Equipments:

Heavy Duty Paper Cutter
Or Cutter and Ruler
Single Hole Puncher 8-11mm

Instructions:

Print all three types of notepads and stack them together, then trim the pages. Each notepad stack is in a different length.
Use a single hole punch to make a hole in the top left corner of each page. Be sure to punch each one in the exact same spot for alignment.
You should now have three stacks of notepads, all hole punched at the top left corner.
Clip each notepad stack tightly and apply a thin, even layer of PVA glue along the top edge. For the largest notepad, cut a piece of chipboard to match its size, place it behind the stack as a backing, then clip and glue as usual.
Use a sponge to spread the glue.
Let it dry for 15 min.
Remove the clips and you now should have three individual notepads.
Apply double-sided tape to the back of the first and second notepad stack
Stick and stack them together
Optional: You can stack all three notepads together and glue them at the top as one unit. This eliminates the need for double-sided tape and saves you from attaching each notepad individually.