Project Brief: Handmade Sketchbook
/Create a unique, recycled sketchbook to strengthen your Art & Design portfolio
Looking to boost your Art & Design portfolio for a college or university application? This project invites you to design and make your own handmade sketchbook using recycled materials to create something entirely your own.
Whether you're applying for Interior Design, Architecture, Modelmaking, or any creative degree, showing off your skills in a well-crafted, custom sketchbook will help your application stand out. It's practical, sustainable, and a great conversation starter in interviews.
Why Sketchbooks Matter
Sketchbooks are essential tools for artists and designers. They’re used to record ideas, test concepts, explore materials, and document creative journeys. If you pursue a creative career, you’ll likely fill hundreds of them.
But before you fill a sketchbook with work - why not make one from scratch?
This Project Is Perfect For:
Art & Design students
Modelmaking applicants
Interior Design and Interior Architecture students
Aspiring Architects...or anyone who wants to show initiative, creativity, and craftsmanship in their portfolio.
What You’ll Need:
Recycled materials: cardboard, cereal boxes, newspaper, old wrapping paper, paper bags, etc. (Tip: Variety adds interest.)
Thread, yarn, wire, or cord, anything strong enough to bind the pages.
A large needle for stitching the spine.
Scissors or a craft knife and adult supervision if needed
Step-by-Step: How to Make Your Handmade Sketchbook
Design your cover | Choose your outer material and decide the size and shape of your sketchbook. Fold it in half to form a front and back cover. Cut into the cover if you’d like windows, shapes, or other design details.
Gather your pages | Mix and match your paper. Use plain, patterned, textured, and even printed materials to add variety. Don't worry about perfection, creativity is the goal!
Bind your book | Stack the pages inside your cover. Use your needle and thread to sew them together through the spine. Punch holes as needed and bind with a simple stitch. Messy stitches are part of the handmade charm.
Add interactive design details | Cut shapes, windows, or doors into the pages so that one layer leads to another, perfect for storytelling, branding, or thematic projects. Think about layering, negative space, and even hidden pages!
Personalise it | Add your name, logo, or brand colours. This is your sketchbook, so let it reflect your style. Be bold. Be intentional. Be you.
Final Tip: Photograph your finished sketchbook from multiple angles and include it in your portfolio. Document the process too, it shows initiative, design thinking, and craftsmanship.
