Now that I’ve created my file folder journal, it’s time to start building the pages. I’m using patterned paper, Tim Holtz Distress Inks, and washi tape to prepare my pages for decorating.

For this page spread I just glued patterned paper to the file folder pages. To hid the seam, I glued down a strip of a contrasting paper. I discovered that if I butt the papers right up next to each other, the book won’t close so I had to use my straight edge to trim a thin strip from each side.

Here’s another spread where I used a strip of contrasting paper to hide the gap where the two patterned papers met at the binding. As you can see, once the book was closed, the paper wrinkled a bit. I’m choosing to be okay with that!

Using washi tape in the center proved more successful than gluing down paper. For this spread I also added the same washi tape to the edge of the right-hand page.

For this spread I experimented with using two different types of washi tape on the same page. I can’t decide whether I like it or not…

The page at the top of the post was created with Tim Holtz Distress Inks and an Ink Blending Tool. My blending skills could still use a little work!

Next step is the stamping! I’ll share that in my next post!

Blessings,
~Happy Heart Art Girl