Thankyou for sharing. I'm going to make a journal for my son who is planning to travel. Then I'll make one for my girl and then myself. I can't wait to get started. You've inspired me.
You're very welcome! It means a lot to me that you are getting use out of my video! I hope you have fun making the journals and have fun using them:) Take care!
i looked around and yours is by far the best demonstration and final product on TH-cam. Thank you for the excellent video. Guys, this is the one you want.
The leather maker in me freaked out when you broke out the Vaseline! Petroleum products will break down leather over time. The same effect can be had by simply using some Neat's Foot Oil. Dillute your alcohol (as this will dry out the leather - and make it stiffer - not more supple) and give it a small spritz with a water bottle. Then add Neat's foot oil - and place out into the sun. It will be one half shade darker when done (it tans like every other skin) but it will be softer. Loved the tutorial and not trying to tell you how to do your craft. Just a suggection.
No worries:) I didn't have any Neats Foot oil at that moment, but I have heard of that product, I'll have to get my hands on some. I respect your suggestion, thank you and thanks for watching my video!
Never done a leather journal before. Your video is very inspiring, not to say how clear your instruction is in treating the leather cover and the long stitch execution. Thanks for sharing!
I have been junk journaling during this past year - trying to keep my hands busy while trying to make sense out of things... I have a left-over piece of leather my industrial designer son had from his college days and so wanted to do something with it for him. This video gave me the perfect idea! Thank you so much! Be blessed! :)
Thank you for watching my video:) I'm glad that this was able to help. Crafting has always been a part of my life and it has brought me great joy in it, thought I'd share it with everyone else:) Take care!
Thank you so much for the detailed instructions. I've been doing leatherwork for a year now and something like this would be perfect for my daughter. Didn't know where to start and now I do!
Great skills be proud, leather is the most beautiful,organic,spiritual, and rewarding medium to work with. Some crafters feel that it has a second life as it gets more beautiful and easier to use as it gets older. It deserves to be treated with respect, the more respect you give it the more rewarding your craft will be!
I love this journal. I rarely see men doing this and it is a very masculine journal & very instructive on how to do it. I've only made junk journals, but I have a large piece of leather and want to try this. I will have to watch the video a few times to master the outside stitching at top & bottom. It looks very professional. Thank you for sharing.
You could protect the binding , by making a double cover. Overlay an outer cover, on top of the first. glue the edges, and saddle stitch it. This would also let you reverse the 1st/inner cover. This letting you use the grain side, as the interior.
These are beautiful. Thank you for taking the time to share how you made them, as well as how informative you were. I can hardly wait to make some for my friends and family.
Thank you very much for that. I make journals with card covers or fabric but I've never used leather - I have some but was uncertain how to proceed - this video is excellent. - I'm going to give it a try! I'm a bit worried that the holes might be too close together and rip - but I guess the leather is strong enough to cope. Many thanks!
kate jackson thank you! I hope you have fun creating your journal. If you're concerned about the hole width you could always adjust the it. Maybe try it on a scrap piece of leather first and see if your leather will hold up to the width of the holes. Thank you for watching my video!
I tried to make the stitching part as clear as possible but its not that great. I did a follow-up video with a bit more detail. Check that one out and see if it helps.
th-cam.com/video/a_LZ-BWhH_Q/w-d-xo.html This helped me to understand the stitching a little better. I think his video was confusing during the stitching part because of all the numbers he was throwing out there. Still a great video though. :)
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Yes that's a good idea. the only thing I don't want to take place is the leather cover to get stiff. I liked the way you softened the cover. Maybe there can be just a little heavier paper than what the signatures are, or maybe the same weight paper. I saw a person who was covering a book with leather. He used a cheese cloth type material. He glued it to the pages along with a stiffer backing strip. Then he glued the cheese cloth to the book cover. I appreciate all your advice and I think I'll try some of those things and see how they come out. Thanks again.
Thank you for taking the time to make this video! I love your ambition and style! My heart says, 'oh my god I can definitely make one of these!' my mind is saying 'this guy is very talented', but you make this look like anyone can do it. But if anything just makes me want to buy one of your journals because you care very much in the job you do! This is really awesome.
+xsasukex Thank you very much for your kind words:) Creating has always been a favorite past time for me. It relaxes me and I have a lot of fun. Journals have always intrigued me even as a child. I made this video so everyone can go on their own personal journey of journal creating. You can use your imagination and make all kinds of different journals with different decorations or features. I use to sell these online but I have since closed down my store. I may reopen it in the future...not too sure yet.
I have no leather working experience. We were at a craft fair today and saw journals similar to what you made in this excellent video. My daughter really wanted it but it was $100 dollars and she didn't want to spend that much. I told her I could buy it for her or for the same $100 dollars, I could buy her the materials to make five of them, having no idea if this was true or not! Now that I have watched your video, I believe I will return to the craft fair tomorrow and just spend the 100 bucks, make my daughter happy and save myself the grief of learning a new craft! I had no idea how involved something like this is. Not that it isn't possible, but sometimes you just have to know your skills and limitations. I'll stick to bowl turning!
It is true that there is a fair amount of work that can go into the end results. But not all steps need to be taken. For example if you buy pre-dyed leather you won't have to do any of the finishing/burnishing/dyes of the material. Paper can be bought at smaller dimensions so you wouldn't have to cut/tear them to size. However, if you do take the time to make one the rewards are priceless. Your daughter would have a one of kind in the entire world of that journal. No two are ever alike:) And she'll know it was crafted from her or your hands, which makes it all the more special. Either way that's just my take on it:). Thank you for taking the time and watching my video!
Watched this tutorial several times and kept referring back to it while making my journal but it's finished and I love it! Can't wait to get more leather and make another, thank you!
I have signatures made and some beautiful deer hide, but I have always been afraid to start. Your video has given me the courage! You have a relaxed and common sense style and it gives me confidence. Thanks!
That's wonderful! I hope you just take the first step and don't worry too much about "mistakes". They serve to give a uniqueness to your book. Just remember to measure at least twice before cutting:)
you make some nice looking journals!! thanks so much for the tutorial! two of my good friends are leaving soon to live in japan so I wanted to try and make them travel journals.
I have some very stiff leather. Your tutorial will help me figure out how to soften it for various uses. Thanks! As everyone else has said, your tutorial is the best!
@Maniac Laments: Hi your comment did not give me a "reply" option. I don't sell these currently. My Etsy store is closed down for now. The one's in this video can be for sale but I'm not making any new ones at this moment.
+Erin Allen Thank you:) The tea staining is a very easy process, but can be a lengthy one. I take 3 to 4 packets of liptons tea (or anything other tea brands that you prefer) and mix it with 8 ounces of boiling water. I place all the packets into the water and wait until it's cooled off a bit. I take a sponge, dip it in the tea and apply it to the already prepared paper (already prepared meaning I've cut them down to the appropriate size). I dab here and there, wipe across in certain places....etc. I usually do both sides. Afterwards I find a place to lay them flat and allow them to dry for a day or two. Then I fold them and arrange all the signatures and place them between two slabs of wood. I press it down with several heavy books or weights or you can you locking clamps from a hardware store. Either way you'll want to press the and leave them pressed for another day or two, this will flatten them out and make it easier for sewing. They it's just a matter of sewing it into your cover. I usually do the tea staining first and while waiting for the paper to dry and press I start prepping the cover. I hope this helps:)
+darkchild57 - thank you! I've done my own research and experiments in large batches without the desired results. I saw how rich you staining resulted and just had to ask! Thank you for the reply!!!
Erin Allen You're welcome:) It also could be the brand of tea and the color of parchment paper I use as well. Try using more of a yellow to gold tone parchment paper. If 4 bags of tea isn't a dark enough effect add another tea bag. Happy crafting!
Thanks for this amazing work of art, explaining in perfect detail! My father used to do these leather sewn pieces as well, and wow the time is well worth it, special to the heart works of art❤️ no doubt will last a lifetime.
Thank you for watching my humble video! I agree, making your own journal and indeed any diy projects always instills special meaning. Journals have always held a great interest for me and they represent timelessness.
Okay so I made my journal today. Great tutorial and very easy to follow along with a few pauses. I got ahead of myself and punched the wrong number of wholes in my first set of signatures so used a different stitch method because I didn't want to waste paper (tomoe river paper). It worked out well but I would like to try yours next time. I can see how this can be addicting because I'm already planning my next journal once I get more paper. Thank you.
Holly Pickett Nice! That's the beauty of crafting, you can always improv and do something different! And yes, definitely addicting. If you do end up punching too many sewing holes you could always use a cardstock cover and use a saddle stitch. That'll give you Moleskine-like notebook. I can already tell you'll get really creative with your journals:) Have fun!
Thank you! I'm glad you see the value in making a journal with your own hands. It's a great way to get that "one off" personalized book that's all your own and it makes putting it to use all that more special:). Happy crafting!
I remember doing coffee stains on paper to make it look like parchment / treasure maps [+burning the edges] x.x Great video as always. Do you ever plan to get even more complicated? Just wondering, wouldn't it be easier to create templates in photoshop, so that every line and hole is exact/precise? And this way the templates are easily accessible, re-printable if damaged, easily change-able, etc.. That softening step reminds me of force-ably breaking in a baseball mitt. Ah nostalgia lol Nice end, sounded totally like a pro tutorial vid
Thanks man! I've never thought of using PS for the templates, that's a good idea. My only concern is that the size is always a tiny bit off when I print from PS. But ultimately I like to tell people my journals are 100% hand crafted, this includes the templates lol:) I like to soften the covers on all my journal, it lends a very nice feel and you won't have to spend years getting that effect. As for your part 2 comment, I have thought about more complicated covers but the problem with adding more features on the inside or outside (ie, button closures, zippers, pockets...) is that it makes an uneven surface for writing. That's why I elect to go with wrap ties and or bands. I've tried several different decorative closures in my past creations and afterwards I noticed it would be annoying to write on, specifically the first few pages at the beginning and at the end of the book. I'm more for functionality first and then looks:)
I know this is 3 years old, but I found it and others will too so in my book comments are still relevant. Doing things with "templates" takes away from that hand-crafted look you are after. you get perfection instead of that subtle roughness that makes hand-crafted items so special. Love you work!
We are exporters of leather journals from India (based in Udaipur, Rajasthan) who have specialized in fine leather workmanship and embossing for more than 15 years. We take pride in our: Professional embossing techniques. Unique, constantly-changing product line. Successful, time-tested, hand-made methods. We can emboss custom designs for our existing products or design an entirely new leather product for you. In addition to all of the current products listed on theProducts page, we've previously made the following items for customers: Telephone and address books Business cards Portfolios Leather wrist bands Wedding memory books Restaurant menus Backpacks and wallets Leather jackets Self-published books Leather Journals and Book Cover
I am not a big reader, as a matter of fact I hate reading. Same about writing. But these old looking vintage journals are very interesting and amazing!!!! Great job.
In not much of a reader myself, but I do like to write occasionally. I do enjoy making these journals more than writing. Thank you for watching and commenting!
Thank you for watching this very long video he says... Thank you so much for making it!! This is by far the best tutorial I've seen on this subject. You explain each and every step so well! Definitely will be using this for my wedding guest book
Thank you so much for posting this video. This is exactly what I have been looking for to make my own journals. As much as I love buying things, I love learning to make things that I can also make for gifts. I am paper, fountain pen and ink obsessed and I cannot wait to make one.
Holly Pickett You're very welcome! It's always nice to custom make something and tailor it to your specifics. I love buying stuff myself but I love making things more! I too like fountain pens and at one point owned quite a few, but it got be rather an expensive hobby lol. I'm sure you'll have great fun making one of these and making more in the future. I've made over 200 to date. I've sold them in the past and given them away as gifts. Best wishes to you and your craft!
HELLO! I think your video is so useful and I want to made one ,too. BUT!! My English is too terrible to understand all right procedure what you say in the video...TT Could you put some other languages (for example Chinese~XD) into the video~ You have been a lifesaver!
A shoemaker once told me to make the leather wet/damp before using the dye on leather. The colour wouldn't be notable different, but it would save dye and be easier to apply.
That journal was made with the exact same techniques as the one in the video. The main difference is that I took all the pages and soaked them in hot tea. I let the pages dry and then press them flat for 48 hours. The rest of the process is the same.
jpcancela One could make a decent living making these...all depends on how skilled they are. I did ok. I make these because I enjoy leather crafting I charged a fair price based on size and the amount of customization.
darkchild57 Yes. These books you made are much better looking than all the leather journals I've found online, if you aren't selling it yet I might have to make one myself.. Hmm
jpcancela Thank you for your very kind words! I highly recommend that you make one. This is the whole reason I've made the tutorial. I find great relaxation and enjoyment in leather crafting and I hope you feel the same way when you create your own journal. After you're done you'll find that the journal means that much more to you because it was your own creation:)
Your tutorials are great, and I love the styles you share. I have made 2 journals, my first following this video and my second following your "high capacity refillable" video. Im about to start another one :) Thank you so much for sharing, much appreciated
incorrect on the leather. The leather characteristics you describe are incorrect. The side and the shoulder do not govern how flexible it is. Ever. At all. What piece of the cow the leather was taken from only governs its density, and toughness. The reason the first piece you showed us is stiff, is not only because its thicker, but because its vegetable tanned leather. The second piece is an upholstery style piece, and is also thinner. The flexibility of the leather is governed by what tanning process it went through, and how thick it is.
Best video I have watched on creating and sewing a journal. THANK YOU!!! I'm ready to go try this now. I usually am intimidated after watching videos on this.
Thanks! I hope you have a fun time making your own journal! Don't be intimidated, take it one step at a time and don't be afraid to experiment with your own style. Don't worry about "mistakes", it adds to the personality of the finished book!
Thank you so much for taking the time to show this process. I make vintage junk journals and have recently acquired some leather that I would like to put to some use:)
This is one of the most informative and easy to follow movies I have seen in a while on youtube - thank you so much! My book came out brilliantly - you have taught me a new skill - thank you!
Thank you! The tooling is a lot of work but it's worth it for a totally custom look and feel. Weathering is my favorite effect for the covers and combined with tea stained pages are just the best IMO. Thank you for watching and Happy New Years to you as well!
I've watched your video for ideas, and now I'm in the process of making my own leather journal. I'll probably watch it again as I go through each step. I just wanted you to know that this video is still inspiring people. I'll share one thing about my own tea staining experience, if I may. I thought using raspberry tea, since the tea leaves were red, would produce a rose-color stain, so I experimented with that. Instead, the pages stained a light green! I have no idea why, but it's a lovely shade, and I'm still going to use the pages. I just wasn't expecting that outcome at all. Anyway, love your channel!
That is really cool that this video is still inspiring! When I first decided to make this I didn't think it would be the most watched video on my channel. The whole tea staining thing also caught me off guard. I used Lipton's tea which came out black and it stained all my pages a red/brown color. I've read that whatever the color of the tea used it will always be much lighter than what you think. Experimentation is the key:)...and also the fun! Thank you very much for watching and your very kind words!
Thank you for sharing your leather binding tips...I have made paper and card stock ones but neded to know how I should go about things when making a leather one for a friend...your video makes all very clear, thanks again...Di xx
Great demonstration! It was a very fun project for me to do in the very late hours of the night. Mine didn't come out very well because I didn't have quite enough leather, but I'm still satisfied with the result. For my first one, it's not too bad. Definitely a learning experience. Great tutorial! I plan on making more in the future!
Thank you! I'm glad you had fun with this project. Journal crafting has always been a very rewarding project for me as well as other projects such as bags and wallets. The first one is always the benchmark because every journal after that will be more and more refined (and hopefully more creative). Thank you for watching my video!
Thanku…this is t best and most explained video on making a leather&cotton paper journal…I wil watch and rewatch it again&again so I’m confident in making mine……u sure explain it well…Thanku 😊
Thankyou for sharing. I'm going to make a journal for my son who is planning to travel. Then I'll make one for my girl and then myself. I can't wait to get started. You've inspired me.
You're very welcome! It means a lot to me that you are getting use out of my video! I hope you have fun making the journals and have fun using them:) Take care!
i looked around and yours is by far the best demonstration and final product on TH-cam. Thank you for the excellent video. Guys, this is the one you want.
+Heath Kitchen Thank you, you're too kind!
Heath Kitchen
I am a clwon
Brenda Nunez Could you please explain to us what a "clwon" is?
Brenda Nunez BRASILEIRA?
The leather maker in me freaked out when you broke out the Vaseline! Petroleum products will break down leather over time. The same effect can be had by simply using some Neat's Foot Oil. Dillute your alcohol (as this will dry out the leather - and make it stiffer - not more supple) and give it a small spritz with a water bottle. Then add Neat's foot oil - and place out into the sun. It will be one half shade darker when done (it tans like every other skin) but it will be softer.
Loved the tutorial and not trying to tell you how to do your craft. Just a suggection.
No worries:) I didn't have any Neats Foot oil at that moment, but I have heard of that product, I'll have to get my hands on some. I respect your suggestion, thank you and thanks for watching my video!
Olive oil will work fine too.
I've heard a mixture made from bees wax & something else is really good
Never done a leather journal before. Your video is very inspiring, not to say how clear your instruction is in treating the leather cover and the long stitch execution. Thanks for sharing!
thanks so much I had to make one of those to finish my skit for class in history u got me an A±
You're very welcome! I'm glad I could help:) Good job on the A+!
I have been junk journaling during this past year - trying to keep my hands busy while trying to make sense out of things... I have a left-over piece of leather my industrial designer son had from his college days and so wanted to do something with it for him. This video gave me the perfect idea! Thank you so much! Be blessed! :)
Best final outcome and overall well explained ‘DIY’ on TH-cam! And even explain/show different options. Thank you for sharing!! 🙏🏼
You are very generous sharing your skill, knowledge, tips. My daughters and I learned a lot watching this video. Very precise.
Thank you for watching my video:) I'm glad that this was able to help. Crafting has always been a part of my life and it has brought me great joy in it, thought I'd share it with everyone else:) Take care!
Great tutorial. I plan on using this technique for a distressed wedding album. Thank you for taking the time to do this.
That is a wonderful project! Have fun making the album. Thank you for watching my humble vid!
Thank you so much for the detailed instructions. I've been doing leatherwork for a year now and something like this would be perfect for my daughter. Didn't know where to start and now I do!
You're welcome! Thank you for watching my vid! I hope you have fun crafting a journal for her:)
I especially liked the demonstration of dying the leather. Also you gave clear and detailed explanations.
Thank you:) Appreciate your kind words!
I love all of these journal making videos, they've been very helpful for making a Christmas present for my girlfriend. Thanks for the great videos!
+Andrew Gomez Thank you:) I'm glad I could be of help! I'm sure you'll love your custom journal for her.
That wrap journal is gorgeous! I love it!
Great skills be proud, leather is the most beautiful,organic,spiritual, and rewarding medium to work with. Some crafters feel that it has a second life as it gets more beautiful and easier to use as it gets older. It deserves to be treated with respect, the more respect you give it the more rewarding your craft will be!
I love this journal. I rarely see men doing this and it is a very masculine journal & very instructive on how to do it. I've only made junk journals, but I have a large piece of leather and want to try this. I will have to watch the video a few times to master the outside stitching at top & bottom. It looks very professional. Thank you for sharing.
You could protect the binding , by making a double cover. Overlay an outer cover, on top of the first. glue the edges, and saddle stitch it. This would also let you reverse the 1st/inner cover. This letting you use the grain side, as the interior.
Why do artist always have such nice hands. Also great video, these are awesome.
These are beautiful. Thank you for taking the time to share how you made them, as well as how informative you were. I can hardly wait to make some for my friends and family.
Raraviel1979 Thanks! Appreciate you watching! I'm glad you found this video helpful! I hope you have fun making these as I do:)
Thank you very much for that. I make journals with card covers or fabric but I've never used leather - I have some but was uncertain how to proceed - this video is excellent. - I'm going to give it a try! I'm a bit worried that the holes might be too close together and rip - but I guess the leather is strong enough to cope. Many thanks!
kate jackson thank you! I hope you have fun creating your journal. If you're concerned about the hole width you could always adjust the it. Maybe try it on a scrap piece of leather first and see if your leather will hold up to the width of the holes. Thank you for watching my video!
Your leather journals look amazing! Thank you for sharing! Off to buy some leather to make my own!
+Yvonne Yam Thank you! I hope you have fun making your own personalized journal:)
i kinda like the hand size journal one. it's awesome
I reference this video every so often when I'm making traveler's journals and I get foggy on the stitching.
I tried to make the stitching part as clear as possible but its not that great. I did a follow-up video with a bit more detail. Check that one out and see if it helps.
th-cam.com/video/a_LZ-BWhH_Q/w-d-xo.html
This helped me to understand the stitching a little better. I think his video was confusing during the stitching part because of all the numbers he was throwing out there. Still a great video though. :)
Yes that's a good idea. the only thing I don't want to take place is the leather cover to get stiff. I liked the way you softened the cover. Maybe there can be just a little heavier paper than what the signatures are, or maybe the same weight paper. I saw a person who was covering a book with leather. He used a cheese cloth type material. He glued it to the pages along with a stiffer backing strip. Then he glued the cheese cloth to the book cover. I appreciate all your advice and I think I'll try some of those things and see how they come out. Thanks again.
I love!!!This will be perfect for my book of shadows!
Thank you for this tutorial... I appreciate your willingness to share your gifts and your gentle guidance and skill as a teacher. Blessings!
+Lynda Griebenow You're very welcome and thank you for watching!
You go through one of the most detailed parts, the sewing, the fastest.
One of the best tutorials I have ever seen…thanks!
Thank you for taking the time to make this video! I love your ambition and style! My heart says, 'oh my god I can definitely make one of these!' my mind is saying 'this guy is very talented', but you make this look like anyone can do it. But if anything just makes me want to buy one of your journals because you care very much in the job you do! This is really awesome.
+xsasukex Thank you very much for your kind words:) Creating has always been a favorite past time for me. It relaxes me and I have a lot of fun. Journals have always intrigued me even as a child. I made this video so everyone can go on their own personal journey of journal creating. You can use your imagination and make all kinds of different journals with different decorations or features. I use to sell these online but I have since closed down my store. I may reopen it in the future...not too sure yet.
I have no leather working experience. We were at a craft fair today and saw journals similar to what you made in this excellent video. My daughter really wanted it but it was $100 dollars and she didn't want to spend that much. I told her I could buy it for her or for the same $100 dollars, I could buy her the materials to make five of them, having no idea if this was true or not! Now that I have watched your video, I believe I will return to the craft fair tomorrow and just spend the 100 bucks, make my daughter happy and save myself the grief of learning a new craft! I had no idea how involved something like this is. Not that it isn't possible, but sometimes you just have to know your skills and limitations. I'll stick to bowl turning!
It is true that there is a fair amount of work that can go into the end results. But not all steps need to be taken. For example if you buy pre-dyed leather you won't have to do any of the finishing/burnishing/dyes of the material. Paper can be bought at smaller dimensions so you wouldn't have to cut/tear them to size. However, if you do take the time to make one the rewards are priceless. Your daughter would have a one of kind in the entire world of that journal. No two are ever alike:) And she'll know it was crafted from her or your hands, which makes it all the more special. Either way that's just my take on it:). Thank you for taking the time and watching my video!
Wow! Thank you for making this video! Very well done, clear, and easy to follow.
+Giovanna Mealer Thank you very much! I'm glad it was helpful!
That green one with a bamboo design is gorgeous. Great job.
Am I the only one trying to make John Winchester's journal????
did you end up making it
Holy shi- this is literally what I'm doing now in 2024
😂😂😂
guilty
I really liked your version on how to create a journal/book. Your journal turned out beautiful, I love the look of real leather!
Thank you very much! You are too kind.
A perfect tutorial! Thank you so much. I've spent so long looking for a tutorial and this is the one!
Thank you very much! I appreciate you!
Love that notebooks.... They are gorgeous. The only sad thing about them - they are not endless.
Thank YOU very much for taking the time to make this long video! Your handmade journals are so beautiful :D
+aidreu You're welcome! I'm glad you like it! I hope you get some use of the video:)
Watched this tutorial several times and kept referring back to it while making my journal but it's finished and I love it! Can't wait to get more leather and make another, thank you!
Thank you! This was so clear and enjoyable to watch. I look forward to making my own - and your video has been a huge inspiration and help.
I have signatures made and some beautiful deer hide, but I have always been afraid to start. Your video has given me the courage! You have a relaxed and common sense style and it gives me confidence. Thanks!
That's wonderful! I hope you just take the first step and don't worry too much about "mistakes". They serve to give a uniqueness to your book. Just remember to measure at least twice before cutting:)
I LOVE the bamboo one!
I bet this makes an amazing junk journal, too. Thanks for sharing your work!
you make some nice looking journals!! thanks so much for the tutorial! two of my good friends are leaving soon to live in japan so I wanted to try and make them travel journals.
Thank you! I appreciate your kind words! These make great gifts and it's very personalized, one of a kind. I wish you happy crafting!
I have some very stiff leather. Your tutorial will help me figure out how to soften it for various uses. Thanks! As everyone else has said, your tutorial is the best!
Thank you! You are most kind! I am happy that I can help:)
@Maniac Laments: Hi your comment did not give me a "reply" option. I don't sell these currently. My Etsy store is closed down for now. The one's in this video can be for sale but I'm not making any new ones at this moment.
I'm stoned but this video is awsome
Joking!;-) ♥
But not about the awesome part
melissa bolton thanks!
+darkchild57 How much would you sell the black wrap cord one for? Im highly interested!!!
This is one of the more approachable ways to make a leather book. Thanks for the informative video!
That was a very sincere thank you. nice journals
Bronson Rodriguez Thank you! And thank you for watching my video!
I really like the long stitch and Japanese single page stitch they are easiest for me
Now we know how to make personal diary in post apocalyptic world :)
Алькатрас Бейн good one 😂🤝
Ricardo Milos lol
Ellie from the last of us vibes
Debbie Parrilla that’s why I came here, I also came here because of Arthur Morgan’s journal.
YOU BASTARD YOU JINXED US ALL!!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you so much for this easy to follow tutorial! Good, clean instruction! Could you give us some ideas on how you dye/stain your pages too?
+Erin Allen Thank you:) The tea staining is a very easy process, but can be a lengthy one. I take 3 to 4 packets of liptons tea (or anything other tea brands that you prefer) and mix it with 8 ounces of boiling water. I place all the packets into the water and wait until it's cooled off a bit. I take a sponge, dip it in the tea and apply it to the already prepared paper (already prepared meaning I've cut them down to the appropriate size). I dab here and there, wipe across in certain places....etc. I usually do both sides. Afterwards I find a place to lay them flat and allow them to dry for a day or two. Then I fold them and arrange all the signatures and place them between two slabs of wood. I press it down with several heavy books or weights or you can you locking clamps from a hardware store. Either way you'll want to press the and leave them pressed for another day or two, this will flatten them out and make it easier for sewing. They it's just a matter of sewing it into your cover. I usually do the tea staining first and while waiting for the paper to dry and press I start prepping the cover. I hope this helps:)
+darkchild57 - thank you! I've done my own research and experiments in large batches without the desired results. I saw how rich you staining resulted and just had to ask! Thank you for the reply!!!
Erin Allen You're welcome:) It also could be the brand of tea and the color of parchment paper I use as well. Try using more of a yellow to gold tone parchment paper. If 4 bags of tea isn't a dark enough effect add another tea bag. Happy crafting!
darkchild57 I love your videos! Thanks! Can u tell me where I could buy parchment paper in bulk for a good price?? 😊
Thanks for this amazing work of art, explaining in perfect detail! My father used to do these leather sewn pieces as well, and wow the time is well worth it, special to the heart works of art❤️ no doubt will last a lifetime.
Thank you for watching my humble video! I agree, making your own journal and indeed any diy projects always instills special meaning. Journals have always held a great interest for me and they represent timelessness.
Excellent very explanatory video, better impossible. And your voice is beautiful! TFS
Omg I adore!!!! Old things! But those tea stained sheets😱 I need that! 🤫😂
I have a tiny little lotion spatula I got from Bath and Body Works and that works really well in place of a bone folder :}
PS, I love this tutorial!!
Okay so I made my journal today. Great tutorial and very easy to follow along with a few pauses. I got ahead of myself and punched the wrong number of wholes in my first set of signatures so used a different stitch method because I didn't want to waste paper (tomoe river paper). It worked out well but I would like to try yours next time. I can see how this can be addicting because I'm already planning my next journal once I get more paper. Thank you.
Holly Pickett Nice! That's the beauty of crafting, you can always improv and do something different! And yes, definitely addicting. If you do end up punching too many sewing holes you could always use a cardstock cover and use a saddle stitch. That'll give you Moleskine-like notebook. I can already tell you'll get really creative with your journals:) Have fun!
you should try making a Book of the dead or necronomicon
Really beautiful. I saved leather from an old sofa and plan to upcycle it to make book covers and pencil cases! X
Thank you! Nice way of utilizing your resources!
beautifully done. thank you for sharing!
I love how you give advice and that you made a journal that i have been wanting for a long time! Why buy when you can make!
Thank you! I'm glad you see the value in making a journal with your own hands. It's a great way to get that "one off" personalized book that's all your own and it makes putting it to use all that more special:). Happy crafting!
Awesome work! I gonna make myself one :-)
I have one question: how thick leather U mostly use for cover?
Thank you! The leather I use is about 2mm thick. Too thick and the cover doesnt want to stay closed.
I just made a 4x4 inch pocket notebook and the stitching was difficult with so little room but I made it work! Thanks for the video!
Am i using this solely because im thinking of making Johns journal from SPN? Yes.
How did it turn out? I wish TH-cam would let pictures be uploaded
The best bit of kit I've just purchased is a rotary blade cutter! Makes cutting leather as easy as cutting pizza!
I've always wanted to try one out, but I'm still relying on my normal box cutter at the moment.
Do you think I could use a rabbit skin instead of cow leather?
looks great, especially the wrap around one with the uneven edge.... never tried it, but i sure will try it in the future
+wrangww2 Thank you:) I do hope you give it a try sometime!
I remember doing coffee stains on paper to make it look like parchment / treasure maps [+burning the edges] x.x Great video as always. Do you ever plan to get even more complicated? Just wondering, wouldn't it be easier to create templates in photoshop, so that every line and hole is exact/precise? And this way the templates are easily accessible, re-printable if damaged, easily change-able, etc.. That softening step reminds me of force-ably breaking in a baseball mitt. Ah nostalgia lol Nice end, sounded totally like a pro tutorial vid
Thanks man! I've never thought of using PS for the templates, that's a good idea. My only concern is that the size is always a tiny bit off when I print from PS. But ultimately I like to tell people my journals are 100% hand crafted, this includes the templates lol:) I like to soften the covers on all my journal, it lends a very nice feel and you won't have to spend years getting that effect. As for your part 2 comment, I have thought about more complicated covers but the problem with adding more features on the inside or outside (ie, button closures, zippers, pockets...) is that it makes an uneven surface for writing. That's why I elect to go with wrap ties and or bands. I've tried several different decorative closures in my past creations and afterwards I noticed it would be annoying to write on, specifically the first few pages at the beginning and at the end of the book. I'm more for functionality first and then looks:)
I know this is 3 years old, but I found it and others will too so in my book comments are still relevant. Doing things with "templates" takes away from that hand-crafted look you are after. you get perfection instead of that subtle roughness that makes hand-crafted items so special. Love you work!
I want to design my own to give to friends as gifts!!! Thanks for creating this video
hey can you make Nathan drakes uncharted 4 journal how to and I'm pretty sure that one was magnetic so it might be a challenge for you plzzzzz
Jack Williams-cox 😍😍😍😍
What a great idea. I play that game religiously.
Jack Williams-cox Fuck yeah
you're the man ! ive already forgotten about this idea
Yes please!
We are exporters of leather journals from India (based in Udaipur, Rajasthan) who have specialized in fine leather workmanship and embossing for more than 15 years. We take pride in our: Professional embossing techniques. Unique, constantly-changing product line. Successful, time-tested, hand-made methods. We can emboss custom designs for our existing products or design an entirely new leather product for you. In addition to all of the current products listed on theProducts page, we've previously made the following items for customers: Telephone and address books Business cards Portfolios Leather wrist bands Wedding memory books Restaurant menus Backpacks and wallets Leather jackets Self-published books Leather Journals and Book Cover
This tutorial and voiceover were so well worded and thought-out! This helped me so much!! Thank youuuuuu!!
Thank you for your kind words!
kinda lost me during the stitching phase
try watching sea lemons video about long stich binding, it ist more detailed about the binding itself than this one but for real: this video is great!
th-cam.com/video/a_LZ-BWhH_Q/w-d-xo.html
I am not a big reader, as a matter of fact I hate reading. Same about writing. But these old looking vintage journals are very interesting and amazing!!!! Great job.
In not much of a reader myself, but I do like to write occasionally. I do enjoy making these journals more than writing. Thank you for watching and commenting!
Thank you!
Like!
Thank you for watching this very long video he says... Thank you so much for making it!! This is by far the best tutorial I've seen on this subject. You explain each and every step so well! Definitely will be using this for my wedding guest book
You are very welcome! I'm glad you have found it useful:) I wish you happy memories and hope you have fun making your wedding guest book!
What kind of paper did you use?? Also where do you buy your leather?
Jenna Ball theres a place called Tandy Leather here check to see if they're where you live
Thank you so much for posting this video. This is exactly what I have been looking for to make my own journals. As much as I love buying things, I love learning to make things that I can also make for gifts. I am paper, fountain pen and ink obsessed and I cannot wait to make one.
Holly Pickett You're very welcome! It's always nice to custom make something and tailor it to your specifics. I love buying stuff myself but I love making things more! I too like fountain pens and at one point owned quite a few, but it got be rather an expensive hobby lol. I'm sure you'll have great fun making one of these and making more in the future. I've made over 200 to date. I've sold them in the past and given them away as gifts. Best wishes to you and your craft!
HELLO!
I think your video is so useful and I want to made one ,too.
BUT!! My English is too terrible to understand all right procedure what you say in the video...TT
Could you put some other languages (for example Chinese~XD) into the video~
You have been a lifesaver!
+廖宜昀 I will try to get the subtitles to work. I've never had too much luck with it.
+darkchild57 THANKS!!
+darkchild57 THANKS!!
A shoemaker once told me to make the leather wet/damp before using the dye on leather. The colour wouldn't be notable different, but it would save dye and be easier to apply.
Can you please make a tuturial for the journal at 0:55?
That journal was made with the exact same techniques as the one in the video. The main difference is that I took all the pages and soaked them in hot tea. I let the pages dry and then press them flat for 48 hours. The rest of the process is the same.
darkchild57
Thanks :P. Looks awesome btw, you could make a good profit in these, I suppose?
jpcancela One could make a decent living making these...all depends on how skilled they are. I did ok. I make these because I enjoy leather crafting I charged a fair price based on size and the amount of customization.
darkchild57
Yes. These books you made are much better looking than all the leather journals I've found online, if you aren't selling it yet I might have to make one myself.. Hmm
jpcancela Thank you for your very kind words! I highly recommend that you make one. This is the whole reason I've made the tutorial. I find great relaxation and enjoyment in leather crafting and I hope you feel the same way when you create your own journal. After you're done you'll find that the journal means that much more to you because it was your own creation:)
Your tutorials are great, and I love the styles you share. I have made 2 journals, my first following this video and my second following your "high capacity refillable" video. Im about to start another one :) Thank you so much for sharing, much appreciated
incorrect on the leather. The leather characteristics you describe are incorrect. The side and the shoulder do not govern how flexible it is. Ever. At all. What piece of the cow the leather was taken from only governs its density, and toughness. The reason the first piece you showed us is stiff, is not only because its thicker, but because its vegetable tanned leather. The second piece is an upholstery style piece, and is also thinner. The flexibility of the leather is governed by what tanning process it went through, and how thick it is.
stop being a smartass
Are you Dwight Schrute?
@@donaldrenish41 if your talking to me, no im not
@@andrewwieland7836ha,ha,no. i was talking about that other guy
@@donaldrenish41 ohhhh, ok
Best video I have watched on creating and sewing a journal. THANK YOU!!! I'm ready to go try this now. I usually am intimidated after watching videos on this.
Thanks! I hope you have a fun time making your own journal! Don't be intimidated, take it one step at a time and don't be afraid to experiment with your own style. Don't worry about "mistakes", it adds to the personality of the finished book!
Thanks for the encouragement!!!!!
Thank you so much for not being stingy with your knowledge!!!
This is a superb video. I have been looking at other videos and websites and this is the first one that actually made sense. Great job dude.
Thank you! I'm glad I could be of help!
Thank you so much for taking the time to show this process. I make vintage junk journals and have recently acquired some leather that I would like to put to some use:)
You're very welcome! Thanks for watching!
Thanks. This is the easiest to follow tutorial on journal making I have found, brilliantly done!
+S Eve Thank you:) I'm glad you like the tutorial!
Your journals are beautiful!! Also, amazing & concise tutorial, keep growing, mate!
Just wanted to say thanks so much you taught me everything I needed to know for this project ❤
Beautiful, beautiful work, you are really talented! Thank you for showing!
Thank you! You are most kind!
This is one of the most informative and easy to follow movies I have seen in a while on youtube - thank you so much!
My book came out brilliantly - you have taught me a new skill - thank you!
Thank you for your kind words! I'm glad you have found this video helpful, I hope you make many more of these journals.
The bamboo tooling looks awesome. I really love the aged, rustic weathering, it adds a lot of character!!! Thanks for sharing, and Happy New Year!!!
Thank you! The tooling is a lot of work but it's worth it for a totally custom look and feel. Weathering is my favorite effect for the covers and combined with tea stained pages are just the best IMO. Thank you for watching and Happy New Years to you as well!
Whoa more leather working please this is amazing!!!!
I'm making a sketchbook using this method!
Nice! Happy Crafting!
I've watched your video for ideas, and now I'm in the process of making my own leather journal. I'll probably watch it again as I go through each step. I just wanted you to know that this video is still inspiring people.
I'll share one thing about my own tea staining experience, if I may. I thought using raspberry tea, since the tea leaves were red, would produce a rose-color stain, so I experimented with that. Instead, the pages stained a light green! I have no idea why, but it's a lovely shade, and I'm still going to use the pages. I just wasn't expecting that outcome at all. Anyway, love your channel!
That is really cool that this video is still inspiring! When I first decided to make this I didn't think it would be the most watched video on my channel.
The whole tea staining thing also caught me off guard. I used Lipton's tea which came out black and it stained all my pages a red/brown color. I've read that whatever the color of the tea used it will always be much lighter than what you think. Experimentation is the key:)...and also the fun! Thank you very much for watching and your very kind words!
Your journals are gorgeous! You have a great deal of talent. You make it look easy and NEAT. I know for a fact it's not easy. tfs
glittermama Thank you very much! You're too kind! It's a lot of work but it's worth it in the end:) Thank you for watching my humble vid!
darkchild57 Not so humble, I would say!
Very nice video. Fantastic artist, taught me much. Thank you. Happy Solstice
This is a great tutorial! I stumbled across it on the TH-cams, and I'm quite happy that I did. I'm looking forward to trying this out. Thank you!
Thank you! I really hope you have a blast making these!
Thank you for sharing your leather binding tips...I have made paper and card stock ones but neded to know how I should go about things when making a leather one for a friend...your video makes all very clear, thanks again...Di xx
Thank you for watching! I'm glad I could help!
definitely going to try this! will let you know how it goes!
Great demonstration! It was a very fun project for me to do in the very late hours of the night. Mine didn't come out very well because I didn't have quite enough leather, but I'm still satisfied with the result. For my first one, it's not too bad. Definitely a learning experience. Great tutorial! I plan on making more in the future!
Thank you! I'm glad you had fun with this project. Journal crafting has always been a very rewarding project for me as well as other projects such as bags and wallets. The first one is always the benchmark because every journal after that will be more and more refined (and hopefully more creative). Thank you for watching my video!
Thanku…this is t best and most explained video on making a leather&cotton paper journal…I wil watch and rewatch it again&again so I’m confident in making mine……u sure explain it well…Thanku 😊
This is so awesome. Well done.