How To: Paper Patchwork Folder

DIY Patchwork folder - mypoppet.com.au

Today’s DIY project created by the lovely Belinda of MoonmuM.

For me paperwork is the most incredibly dull thing EVER. I truly dislike it and avoid it at all costs, which isn’t so great when running a small business.

I do, however, love pretty stationery. So since I’m too cheap to pay for ‘designer stationery’ and i need to entice myself into action, I buy plain old bits’n’pieces and pretty them up myself.

It’s a whole lot nicer to sit down with a colourful folder in front of you to get organised when it looks good.

This is my latest attempt at getting my act together – a paper patchwork folder.

You will need:

  • Plain brown A4 ringed binder (got mine at officeworks)
  • Set of white A4 dividers
  • Manilla folder in any colour
  • Colourful and patterned papers
  • Scissors
  • Mod Podge + paintbrush
  • Glue stick
  • Sewing machine (optional)

How to:

To decoupage folder

DIY Patchwork folder - mypoppet.com.au

1. Collect all your patterned paper and cut out a bazillion little hexagons. I used a template approx 4cm wide and needed 72 hexagons.

2. Working from the edges, use your paintbrush with the Mod Podge to glue the hexagons onto the front of your folder.

3. Place colours and patterns randomly to create a nice patchwork effect. Glue them on and coat over the top of them as you go too. Mod Podge is a glue and sealer in one, super-easy to work with, dries clear and gives a nice durable and varnished looking finish.

4. Allow to dry before adding another coat of Mod Podge.

To make dividers and pocket insert

DIY Patchwork folder with dividers - mypoppet.com.au

5. Use decorative paper to cover divider tabs for a co-ordinated look. Glue the coloured paper onto tabs and cut around the tab shape for a neat finish.

6. Make pockets for receipts and small papers by cutting down a coloured manila folder to measure 22cm x 15cm.

7. Sew around three sides of the pocket with a wide zig-zag stitch on the sewing machine. This is optional, you could just glue the edges together if you wanted. I like the homey feel of stitching.

8. Glue your pocket to the inside front cover.

Mod Podge Hexagon Folder - mypoppet.com.au

Done! Hope it brightens up the dullest of dull tasks for you 🙂

Thanks Belinda, your Paper Patchwork folder looks amazing!

3 Comments

  • Amy Anderson says:

    So pretty! Reminds me of a quilt kit my mom and I never finished ;D

  • Night Owl Mom says:

    Creative Memories used to make a hexagon punch. I have one and it punches in two sizes. You can find them on Ebay. Would be easier than cutting them all by hand! Cute idea though.

  • Mel M. M. McCarthy says:

    Fabulous! Amazing that you cut 72 hexagons, but the look is really worth it.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.