Valentine Critters and Notepads

Happy Wednesday, Sweet Friends!! Today is Sweet N Sassy Stamps day on my blog.  I have such a fun project to share!

Years ago, I spent a lot of time developing, filming and writing tutorials.  It was always such a gratifying experience to think up a project or see inspiration somewhere and then figure out the details to share with others.  I especially like the projects that result in a gifty for someone else.  This one is already headed to a very special little girl I know.

The first part is to find the perfect little note pad.  I've been able to find them in a a variety of places....dollar zones, office supply.  They are typically magnetic list pads and they range in size from place to place, but once you have the basics of the pad down, it is easy to adjust the dimensions to accommodate your specific pad. I always take the magnet strip off prior to adhering to the cardstock base.  The base should be twice the width of the pad plus a 1/4" for the spine and another 3/4" for space to add the pen holder.

The added touch lies in the pen holder itself.  Here are the basics so you can try a go at it yourself!  Start with piece of cardstock that measures 2 3/4" x 10 1/2".  Score along the short side at 3/4", 1", 1 3/4" and 2".  Rotate the card stock and score along the longer length at 4 1/2", 4 3/4", 9" and 9 1/4".  Crease all score lines and then trim as shown:

You'll have to create a hole (for the pen or pencil) using either a scissors or small hole punch.  I've used a 1/2" punch. The trick is to fold the card stock along the bottom scored line (when the piece is oriented as shown)  Punch a half circle on the scored line making sure not to extend beyond the top score. 

 Using tacky tape and the scored lines, reinforce the top card stock and create the "box" that holds the pen(cil) as shown:

I've included a picture of the piece from the front also.  You will secure this to the notebook cover and when you do so, be sure the top piece is flush with the box top as seen here:

 

I decorated this with Valentine Critters and the matching dies from Sweet N Sassy Stamps!  Such a cute set--I just love those little guys!  Clearly, I couldn't pick just one!  The sentiment also comes from Sweet N Sassy,  Keep In Touch, Too. I'm feeling a bit inspired--I think I'll be making a few more!

Be Awesome!  Jane

I got crafty with: