35 Best DIY Notebook Covers You Can Make Today

Let me ask you this simple question: Would you rather spend a couple of dollars on a bland and boring store-bought notebook or make your very own cute DIY notebook covers for almost next to nothing? For me, that’s a no-brainer.

Yes, I’m a little bit of a cheapie at times and rather save that cash for something better, but there’s no contest when it comes to amazing designs that can’t even compare to the ones in a store. It’s basically a 101 of any fangirl’s life!

Whether you’re a fan of popular tv series or simply want to stick k-pop idols’ face everywhere (you know what I’m talking about), busting out your creative chops for these DIY notebooks is worth every minute.

We’ve collected the best of the best cover designs of just about everything! They’re quick, easy to make, and of course, they turn out looking incredible.

Don’t believe me? Then I’m just going to let these pictures do the talking!

How To Make A Notebook Cover: Tips To Get Started

1. Pick a design

There’s so many designs and options to choose from that it’s very likely you’ll have a hard time choosing a design you’ll want to follow. Especially, with the unique notebook tutorials, you’re about to see.

But if you already have a basic idea of what you’d like your notebook cover to look like, then you’re one step ahead.

2. Choose your theme

If you’re still having confused on which design to go with, then an easy way I personally love to do is to simply decide on a theme.

Depending on the type of information or the way you plan to use this journal, then you can decorate based on that.

For example, if this notebook is going to be a planner for work, I doubt you’d want to go too girly or stick your bias face all over the cover though you could totally do that if you’d like.

A chic marble design or a girl boss patterned cover (which we’ve included below) will be ideal for that type of notebook.

3. Gather your supplies

Like with every project, you’re going to need supplies to make these notebooks. I always find it best to have everything I need already there so that when I do begin a project, I’m not suddenly faced with a missing pen or material.

What I love the most about this particular project is that you can take supplies you already have at home to decorate these covers. If you have an old unused journal, grab that instead of buying a new one.

But if you need a few plain notebooks to start with, you won’t go wrong with these:

4. Be creative and unique

The great thing about these notebook ideas, you don’t have to follow them to the tee. At the end of the day, this is for your own personal use so add a bit of your own special touch to these covers.

Decorate them however you’d like or in fact, take a few of these ideas and mix them together to see what kind of creation you come up with.

Be bold and unique, it’s your design that matters!

1. DIY Marble Cover

via thelovelydrawer

Anything in marble is the new hottest trend everyone wants to get their hands on and I don’t disagree with them.

Marble can make just about everything look expensive and in case you’re wondering, this classy DIY calls for marble self-adhesive vinyl and copper vinyl for the binding, so do pick that up at a local craft store or you can find it online.

2. Small Pocket Notebooks

via whitehousecraft

These small pocket notebooks are so cute, am I right? And the best part the process of making them goes so fast since they’re just the right size.

You can use them to jot down a few ideas when inspiration hits, save memorable quotes or even use them to remind you what to buy for the evening.

3. DIY Ombre Journals

via damasklove

I definitely wouldn’t pass these covers up. Anything ombre? Yes, please! Of course, if you’re not so much into the colors above, then choose your favorites and follow along.

This might be shocking to you but they’re really easy (and so much fun) to make despite how amazing they look!

The scribbling and blending of colors is definitely the coolest part about this cute notebook cover.

4. Customized Notebook

via enthrallinggumption

Sometimes a simple leafy pattern is all we need in life. Especially, if sketching is not one of your finest skills.

Though there’s hope with these pretty palm leaves literally anyone can draw.

To be honest, I’m not much of a good drawer as well even though I’ve attempted drawing tutorials before, the best I can do is a few simple stick figures here and there.

5. Girl Boss Notebooks

via studiodiy

Stay organized with these cute girl boss printable notebook covers where all you need to do is print, stick and tada! If you’re new to printables, that’s really all there is to it.

Just get the dimensions right and sticking is all on you. Quick, easy and perfect for busy ladies. I’m not sure about you but the lipstick cover is gorgeous!

6. Washi Tape Notebook

via liagriffith

Don’t you just love washi tapes? Ever since I bought a pack of them last month, it’s hard to control myself from sticking them on everything I find!

Ah, if you need a few more unique washi tapes ideas, you’ll love these diy projects that are just as great as making a boring notebook look stylish and pretty.

7. Leather Sketchbook

via themerrythought

This leather notebook is perfect for all those amazing artists and non-artists (hey, you’re special too!) out there.

Well, it doesn’t actually need to be for sketching and drawing but will make a perfect companion for writers too.

Heads up, this notebook also makes a winning diy gift for fathers day!

8. Metallic Foil Notebook

via damasklove

This mink foiled effect is so darn cute and I just remembered there are a few more plain notebooks that are waiting for me to crazy with. Foiling is so much fun and an amazing way to make boring things shine.

If you’re not into the polka dots pattern, Amber also has a lined pattern idea that looks even better!

9. Summer Memories Notebook

via minted

This photo collage will never let you forget the awesome memories and experiences you shared during that amazing summer holidays.

Makes the perfect craft before you head back to school or work.

All you need is a printer and your favorite photos or pictures from Instagram, and a bit of tape to seal the deal.

10. Colorful Dots Fabric Cover

via crazylittleprojects

There’s something amazing about fabric covers, mostly they last much longer than paper! Plus, I’ve got a lot of fabric pieces lying around the house so this works well in my favor.

What’s different about this project is it’s more multifunctional where you can store pens, phone and other things inside the compartments which makes it very useful if you’re setting out for a busy day ahead.

11. Fabric Covered Notebook

via thesprucecrafts

I love how they chose a patterned fabric for this notebook that’s both bold and simple at the same time, don’t you think so?

This diy is actually quite easier than the one above since there’s no sewing involved in this but you will need a light coating of adhesive spray to ensure the fabric sticks. Other than that, you just have to wait for it to dry.

12. Pink And Gold Covers

via eatsleepcuddle

Wow, won’t the girls be jealous after they see you with this stunning pink and gold notebook!

The pink scrapbook paper is used for the outside and you’ll need a gold leaf to get the dipped geometric look. I’m sure other colors like green, blue, purple, and black will turn out looking just as amazing.

13. Wood Effect With Binder

via papernstitchblog

Okay, let me just stay that this is such a creative and fresh idea!

Once I got started, it was really hard to stop and unfortunately (or luckily) I ran out of the wood veneer otherwise I so would have kept going.

The colorful binder really brings everything together and a great addition to these perfect notebook covers.

14. Sea Shell Notebook

via laurenabishop

And if the above idea didn’t wow you yet, then you’re going to have a hard time denying how amazing and cool this sea shell notebook is!

This would also make a great addition of a beach themed gift set or for just writing down inspiring quotes or dreams.

15. Terrazzo Style Notebook

via enthrallinggumption

If you’re a lover of terrazzo projects, you’re going to love this simple and easy tutorial.

This one immediately caught my eye and I couldn’t help but add it to this list. Colorful, fun and a bit quirky, what’s not to love!

16. Overlay Designs

via modpodgerocksblog

Bust out the mod podge because you’re going to need it to stick that beautiful overlay design.

Though the only thing about this design that I’m not too happy about it is the pink and green paper under the title.

It would have been better to use something less busy since the overlay is quite busy itself. Nevertheless, this is still a pretty awesome idea to try!

17. Cute DIY Notebook Covers

via youtube

This tutorial is perfect if you want to decorate a hardcover notebook. Do note that’ll you need a computer and printer for this one, also a bit of photoshop skills.

I love the pink and blue tones on this one.

It looks very cute and no one would be able to say these were handmade. Don’t forget to add the white circle in the middle and your chosen title to complete the look of these covers.

18. Mini Chalkboard Notebooks

via brepurposed

These mini chalkboard notebooks are perfect if you’re working on your goals or want to get things done and a fresh new way to upgrade any boring cheap planner.

In case you’re at a loss on the chalkboard part, all you need to get the effect is a little chalkboard paint and form brush.

19. Embroidered Notebooks

via ellefrost

Last year, I was so into embroidery.

Let’s just say hours were spent searching for embroidery tutorials and after a few attempts myself, my unfinished work is collecting quite a bit of dust.

The only downfall to embroidery is you need a lot of patience, something I completely lack, but with this amazing diy I get to put my very limited skills to use (and all that thread I bought).

20. Wooden Notebook Effect

via burkatron

I know we included a wood effect before but we just thought if you’re looking for something a bit more simple, this baby is definitely worth trying.

It looks so real, I bet some would mistake it for an actual wooden piece!

21. Fandom Covers

via youtube

This tutorial will show you how to transform your most loved pictures into pretty covers.

You’ll find ways to make it unique and fun with different patterns and shapes.

22. Eyelet Bound Floral Notebooks

via damasklove

This floral pattern notebook is definitely something I sway towards since I love anything that’s pretty.

Though, I think this is one of the few notebook covers I’ve come across that are eyelet bound which makes it even more special.

23. Stitched Notebooks

via prettylifegirls

If you love sewing projects then you’re sure to love this stitched effect.

It surprisingly very easy to make and it adds a fantastic texture to the cover which you won’t find in other notebooks.

24. Mini On The Go Spiral Notebooks

via wermemorykeepers

Mini on the go notebooks always come in handy, especially when you quickly want to jot something down or continue studying notes when you’re out and about.

They’re small, cute, and fit in tiny places without creating bulk. This tutorial will show you the exact steps for creating this mini notebook cover.

25. Tumblr Inspired Notebook

via lifeannstyle

Don’t you feel like Tumblr images always look gorgeous? Grab a few images and turn them into these custom made notebooks.

They’ll make a perfect gift to a friend or if you’re planning a special trip or event.

26. Monarch Butterfly Notebook

via pinkstripeysocks

Kid’s will love this adorable butterfly notebook and you can easily make this in just a few minutes.

27. KPOP Notebooks

via youtube

Remember the k-pop notebook covers we promised earlier? Well, we always come through with what we promise.

These notebook covers are incredibly easy to make and you’re sure to fall head over heels for your bias all over again after making these notebooks.

28. Sharpie Notebook

via lilblueboo

This project is a great way to use sharpies, especially if you’re fond of sharpie projects. I love this cover the most since it’s one of the easiest from all.

The black cover really makes the metallic sharpie stand out!

29. Kate Spade Copycat

via onceuponherdream

This is a simple and pretty notebook you can use for just about anything.

30. Motivational Printable Notebooks

via eighteen25

Okay, so this notebook cover is a little different. Instead of painting the watercolor print yourself, you can just grab the freebie and stick it onto any notebook cover. Yes, it’s that easy.

31. XO Notebook

via thecraftedlife

Give this notebook some love by adding your hugs and kisses to it.

This notebook cover is ideal if you want to write a few thoughts down every day or just as a simple daily planner.

32. Cute & Colorful Notebooks

via Mahum Tariq

33. Easy Notebook Covers

via makoccino

34. Travel Journal

via apairandasparediy

35. Printable Notebook Stickers

via designeatrepeat

There you have it!

A variety of different notebook covers you can easily make yourself! I hope you enjoyed making these notebooks as much as we did and if you have a notebook obsession like me, then you’re going to find yourself making quite a few of these projects.

Don’t worry, you’ll enjoy each and every minute of it.

In fact, making different notebooks has been a fun hobby for me recently, especially when I’m sort of in a slump.

It’s a simple and easy way to create something beautiful without spending hours on it.

Which notebook cover do you plan to make? Leave a comment below and tell me which ones were your absolute favorites!