Felt Recipe Notebook Tutorial

Give an everyday composition notebook an adorable makeover with printed felt, a few cutout details, and some ribbon. This easy DIY turns a simple notebook into a custom recipe book, junk journal, diary, list book, and so much more! The whole project comes together with glue, making it a great no-sew craft for beginners.

You can also view the tutorial video by visiting our sister company, Ribbon and Bows Oh My!'s, Instagram page linked here!

You will need:

Notebook

Printed felt for the cover

Assorted felt colors for your design details

Hot glue gun and glue sticks

Scissors

Satin ribbon

Step 1: Cover Your Notebook

Start by cutting your printed felt slightly larger than the front cover of your composition notebook. Apply hot glue to the cover in small sections, then smooth the felt over it as you go.

Trim any excess felt around the edges for a clean finish. You can cover just the front, or add felt to the back cover too if you want a fully wrapped look.

Step 2: Create Your Label and Lettering

We used a Cricut Maker to cut a scalloped label shape from white felt, along with the “RECIPE BOOK” lettering and our little picnic themed pieces.

No cutting machine? No problem. You can hand cut a simple rectangle, oval, circle, or scalloped shape for your label. For the wording, use a fabric marker, felt letter stickers, or hand-cut letters in a fun, bold font.

Step 3: Add Your Felt Details

Arrange your cutout elements along the bottom of the notebook cover. This is where you can make the notebook completely your own!

Once you are happy with the placement, glue each piece in place.

Step 4: Add the Ribbon Ties

Cut two lengths of ribbon long enough to tie a bow with. Glue one end inside the front cover and the other end inside the back cover, close to the spine.

Your Custom Recipe Book Is Ready!

Fill it with handwritten favorites, printed recipes, grocery notes, or whatever you'd like!

The best part is that no two notebooks need to look alike. Pick a print you love, add whatever felt details fit your theme, and turn an ordinary notebook into a recipe book worth keeping on the counter.