Ready to create a journal that’s as unique as you are? Dive into this fun and easy DIY tutorial on crafting your very own refillable journal! Whether you’re a seasoned journaler, a creative spirit, or simply seeking a personalized space for your thoughts and ideas, this guide is your perfect starting point.
We’ll walk you through every step, from selecting the perfect materials to assembling a journal that’s both beautiful and functional. You’ll learn how to create a sturdy cover, bind your pages, and add those special touches that make it truly yours. The best part? It’s refillable, so you can keep adding to your journal for years to come!
Let’s get started on this creative journey and craft a journal that will inspire you every day.
What you’ll need to prepare before crafting your refillable journal:
- Paper to print out the Notes Pages
- 2 Chipboards
- 18mm Chicago Screws
- White Glossy Sticker Paper
Design Journal Cover
Design Your Journal Cover
- Click Create a Planner
- Select A5 size from the Size menu at the top
- Switch Edit layout to ON to customize widgets as you like
- Go to Pattern, select Full display option and choose the design you like
- Go to Save/Export, click Generate PDF and download the file
Design Journal Refill Paper
Create Your Refill Pages
- Continue from same file as cover, go to Pattern
- Select None to create blank page
- Switch Edit layout to ON and add widget
- Select Note and choose your preferred template
- Customize your refill journal paper using the right menu bar
- Go to Color to change the line colors from the color palette or by entering a color code
- Go to Style to apply the desired style to your refill journal paper
- Click the L to R icon to duplicate the design from the left page to the right page
- Go to Layout and adjust the spacing according to the guide above
- Go to Sticker Mode, choose the stickers you like, and apply them to both sides
Print Covers and Refill Paper
Print Your Journal Pages
- Go to your PDF file and open with Adobe Acrobat
- Set the scaling, paper type and printer and click print
- *Note: In this tutorial, we recommend scaling the cover to 120% and the inserts to 100%
How to Make Refillable Journal
Assemble Your Refillable Journal
- Peel the sticker cover and place the Chipboards in the middle, following the guide above
- Trim each corner of the sticker cover
- Place white sticker paper over the chipboard to cover the inside of the cover
- Make holes for binding, following the guide above
- Insert Chicago Screws through the cover and planner inserts, and then screw them tight
So, there you have it! Creating your own refillable journal is a breeze, and the results are uniquely yours. It’s the perfect way to add a personal touch to your journaling routine, or to create a thoughtful and one-of-a-kind gift for someone special. Plus, with your newfound skills and a bit of creativity, you might even consider turning your journal designs into a fun side hustle! So, grab your supplies, let your imagination soar, and start crafting that perfect journal today. Who knows, you might just unlock a hidden passion for design!
Ready to Create Your Own Planner?
Want more tips and inspiration for building your own custom planner or launching a personalized planner brand? Check out our blog for a helpful beginner’s guide: “What You Need to Start a Planner Shop” and Courses to help you get started.
Planify Pro has more DIY tips to help you personalize your planner, whether you’re designing a gift, building a product line, or just creating a layout that works for you.
Check out these easy tutorials and bring your custom planner ideas to life Click Here! Don’t forget to visit our Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest for more inspiration—and to explore our wide selection of premade planner templates, design stickers, and fonts for making your own personalized planner. Let Planify Pro help you on your journey to planner success!
