From years of hands-on crafting, I've learned that screw-post photo albums are perfect for this project. Three-ring binders work too, but they're far trickier to cover effectively.
Remove the screws, take apart the album, and cover the front and back separately for best results.
Cut batting with scissors to fit both covers precisely.
Lightly spray the outside of a cover with adhesive and let it get tacky. (This step is optional if you have spray adhesive on hand—it helps secure the batting.) Position the batting carefully.
Tip: Always use spray adhesives in a well-ventilated area.
For each cover, cut fabric 2 inches larger all around. Center it over the cover and flip the assembly over.
With a hot glue gun, apply a bead of glue along one edge and press the fabric firmly into place.
Repeat on the opposite side to pull it taut, then do the remaining edges, leaving corners for last.
Put a drop of glue at each corner, fold the fabric neatly with your fingers, and secure with pins if needed.
To finish raw edges inside, glue on fabric-covered cardboard or handmade paper cut to fit. Use high-tack spray adhesive or hot glue.
Tip: If handmade paper is too thin, reinforce it by gluing a heavier sheet to the back with spray adhesive first.
Poke scissors through the screw holes to ensure alignment.
Repeat for the other cover, then reassemble. Add decorative touches like satin ribbon frogs or closures if desired.
Q: What materials do you recommend for a magic wand in my daughter's fairy princess costume?
A: Start with a wooden dowel. Paint it gold or silver, add glitter, ribbons matching the costume, or fabric scraps. (Ribbon streamers from the wand look magical!) Attach a foam Christmas star or similar shape to the tip. Involve your daughter—it's a wonderful mother-daughter craft.
Q: What width of ribbon for ribbon embroidery designs? Do I need a special needle?
A: Use 1/8" to 1/4" ribbon widths. Opt for a square or tapestry needle with a large eye. Your local craft store has everything to start.
Q: Do you have instructions for a simple braiding technique?
A: With three strands: Cross one outer strand over the middle (it becomes the new middle). Cross the other outer over the new middle. Alternate until you reach the desired length.
