Friday, June 21, 2013

The Pamphlet Stitch for Children



Aimee, Caroline, and Kevin are putting the finishing touches on their three hole pamphlet stitch mini books.  These are simple to make for a stitch bound book. 

Cut card stock to create the cover. 
8 1/2 x 11" card stock is halved to 8 1/2 x 5 1/2" .  You will fold this in half.

Trim four sheets of text weight paper for the pages (signature) -- fold separately and tuck into the folded spine cover.  Make sure all your pages and cover are in alignment -- use a paper or binder clip to hold in place.

You may need an adult to help you punch holes along the spine.  If you don't have an awl, you can twist a push pin to create holes.  The top and bottom holes should be about an inch from the head and tail, and the third hole is centered.  Check your openings to make sure your cord can pass through -- you can do this without a needle. 

The easy method I've come up with is fool proof!  In less than a minute you will have a bound booklet! 

Cut a piece of cord (or whatever you have to fit the holes; embroidery floss will work well and comes in a wide variety of colors) three times the height of the book.

Begin on the OUTSIDE cover -- insert the cord ends through the top and bottom holes.  Have them BOTH enter the center hole.
Place one end on either side of the long stitch along the spine and double knot.  This is a symmetrical stitch.

Have fun tying beads or charms on the end. 

These little books can be made with scrapbook papers or upcycled papers.  They are great for little journals or sketchbooks. 

Have fun!