How to Make Decorative Paper Pockets: Step-by-Step Tutorial for Junk Journals

 

📂 How to Make Decorative Paper Pockets: Step-by-Step Tutorial for Junk Journals & Scrapbooks ✂️✨

Adding pockets to your junk journals and scrapbooks is a simple way to increase space for tags, photos, notes, and little keepsakes. Plus, they add beautiful layers and texture to your pages!

This tutorial will show you how to create your own decorative paper pockets using simple materials you probably already have. Ready? Let’s get crafting!

---

🧰 What You’ll Need:

• Scrapbook paper, patterned paper, or cardstock (any size will do)

• Scissors or craft knife

• Glue stick or double-sided tape

• Ruler and pencil

• Optional: decorative elements like washi tape, stamps, stickers, or lace

---

🛠 Step-by-Step: How to Make a Basic Paper Pocket

Step 1: Choose Your Paper

Pick a sheet of scrapbook or patterned paper that you love. Typical sizes range from 4”x6” up to 6”x8” but you can customize to fit your journal.

Step 2: Measure and Mark

Decide how tall and wide you want your pocket to be. For example, a 4” wide by 5” tall pocket works well for tags.
Mark a rectangle on your paper accordingly.

Step 3: Cut Out the Pocket Shape

Cut along the rectangle lines.

Step 4: Score and Fold Edges

Using a ruler and bone folder (or the back of a butter knife), score about 0.5” along three edges of your rectangle to create fold lines. Fold these edges inward to form the pocket walls.

Step 5: Glue the Edges

Apply glue or double-sided tape along the folded edges—only on the sides and bottom (not the top). Press firmly to attach the folded edges to the back panel, creating a pocket.

---

🎨 Step 6: Decorate Your Pocket

Add washi tape along the edges, stamp a design, or glue a small lace trim for a vintage feel. You can also punch a hole and tie a ribbon at the top for a cute tag pull.

---

🎁 Step 7: Attach the Pocket to Your Journal Page

Glue or tape the back of your pocket onto a journal page. Now you have a pretty, functional pocket to store little treasures!

---

💡 Bonus Pocket Ideas:

• Envelope Pocket: Use an old envelope folded and decorated.

• Folded Paper Pocket: Fold a square of paper accordion-style for extra dimension.

• Tag Pocket: Cut a pocket shape with a curved or scalloped top edge.

---

🌟 Why Add Paper Pockets?

They make your journal interactive and fun—giving you secret spots for notes, photos, or memorabilia. Plus, they turn flat pages into dimensional, tactile experiences!

---

Ready to try? Grab your paper scraps and start folding—your junk journal just got a beautiful upgrade.