I’m starting off the New Year on a positive note by making some prayer journals for friends using some pretty scrapbook paper that I couldn’t resist purchasing. Most of the time I create items with a more vintage look, but sometimes those spring– and summer-time paper pads just call out to me!

I really enjoy going through multiple papers, mixing and matching them, and deciding what order to put them in for a cohesive journal. I know it simplifies things to purchase/download a journal kit, but I enjoy the creativity of gathering paper and cardstock from different sources and combining them in a unique way.

It’s also fun to think about each friend’s personality and choose colors and patterns that reflect her individuality. It adds an extra layer of personalization to a journal.

I’ve selected all the papers, trimmed them and rounded the corners, and sewn them together. The next step is adding the embellishments, and this is where I sometimes get into trouble when making a journal for someone else.

I’ll tell myself I’m only going to add a LITTLE something to each page, and before I know it things are getting more and more elaborate!

Does anyone else have to keep reminding yourself that the journals are meant to be written in, so lots of lace and buttons, pockets and flaps, stamping and stenciling, etc. can defeat the real purpose?

The last step will be to decorate the covers. That’s always the hardest part for me, maybe because that’s where my journal is making its “first impression” on the recipient and I really want it to be a good one!

What project did you choose to start off the New Year with? I hope you’ll leave a comment and tell me about it!

Blessings!
~Happy Heart Art Girl

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