How to Make a Denim-Covered Notebook

If you have an old notebook lying around, it’s easy to transform it into a stylish, rugged denim-covered journal. This simple project breathes new life into both your worn jeans and your forgotten notebooks. Plus, it’s a great way to create something functional and personal without spending a dime.

What You’ll Need

• An old notebook
• A pair of jeans
• Fabric scissors
• Hot glue gun or strong fabric glue
• Ruler or measuring tape
• Iron (optional)
• Decorative extras like patches, embroidery thread, or fabric paint (optional)

Step 1: Prepare Your Denim

Choose a smooth piece of denim, avoiding thick seams and heavy stitching. Lay your notebook flat on the denim and cut a piece that’s about 1–2 inches wider on all sides. This extra space allows you to fold the fabric neatly inside the covers. Iron the denim first if it’s wrinkled to help it lay flat.

Step 2: Attach the Denim to the Notebook

Center your notebook face-down on the wrong side of the denim. Apply a line of hot glue or fabric glue along one edge of the notebook, fold the fabric over, and press it down firmly. Work your way around the notebook, pulling the fabric taut but not stretching it. Trim any bulky corners so they fold neatly and glue them down.

Step 3: Finish the Inside (Optional)

For a cleaner look, cover the inside covers with a piece of cardstock or decorative paper. Cut the paper slightly smaller than the notebook cover and glue it down to hide the raw fabric edges.

Step 4: Decorate Your Denim Cover

Once your denim is secured, you can leave it simple or add personal touches. Sew or glue on patches, embroider a design, or use fabric paint to add your initials or a favorite quote. This step turns your notebook into a completely customized piece you’ll actually want to use.

Loved this denim project? There’s so much more you can create! Head back to 30 Creative Ways to Repurpose Old Jeans and discover even more DIY ideas to transform your old denim into something amazing.