Notebook to Rule Them All

I truly enjoy creating and designing. However, a problem that I have is marking on a clean sheet of paper. I don't know if others have the same issue, but it gets even worse when it is a piece of nice paper that is bound inside of a really nice notebook. As a result I don't buy sketch notebooks or wring journals. Rather, I have been using copy paper. I would whole punch it and then place it in a three ringed binder. Problem solved; ruin as much paper as I want with my designs and notes.

This works, but it wasn't enough for me. I wanted something with a lower profile. I started using binder clips with page protectors. This was nice but the plastic sleeve was not rigid enough to write/draw on while laying on the couch. Therefore, I started to prototype. This is the result of some trial and error, lessons learned and curiosity.

I hope you enjoy this build!

Step 1: Materials

Acrylic

Paper Clips (4)

Preferred Size Paper Clamps (I am doing 4 small)

Gorilla Packaging tape

Black Vinyl

Step 2: Cut the Acrylic

I have found that the size I prefer is 11.5 by 8.5 inches.

Step 3: Paper Clips

Unbend the paper clips to that they are straightened out. Cut them both down to 5.75 inches.

Step 4: Dismantle Binder Clip

Detach the flange from the binder clip. Simple enough.

Step 5: Feed the Clip in the Clamp

Feed the straightened out paper clip through the clamps holes.

Step 6: Tape It

Tape the paper clips with binder clips onto the longer edge.

Step 7: Additional Steps

Some of the additions that I made are to have elastic nylon bands in order to keep the notebook closed and another to hold my pens and pencils on the side. I also have additional vinyl that frames the acrylic. These additions can be seen at the end of the video at the beginning.