DIY $1 Store Dashboards :: Discbound Planner :: Happy Planner Classic

I love using dashboards to help navigate my planner…so much so, that I decided to create a set for my Home/Long-term planner! Check out this budget-friendly way to make your own customized top tab dividers for your discbound Happy Planner!
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Products used in this video:
• Cooking Concepts Chopping Mats 2pk - Clear: amzn.to/33tFDBe
• Paper Cutters (Guillotine Style): amzn.to/2Z55egm or amzn.to/2KIMFJR
• Officemate 1 Hole Punch with Soft Grip Handle: amzn.to/2YLqv3l
• The Happy Planner Washi Tape Set - Hello Life: (joann) bit.ly/2WxMKbn
• Utility Knife/Box Cutter (3 Knives, Assorted): amzn.to/31Frlvt
• Sharpie Ultra Fine Point Pen, black: amzn.to/2YUHBeH
My Favorite Things:
• The Happy Planner Dashboard Pack, Gold: amzn.to/2XgRgfv or (joann) bit.ly/2LxQsNW
• The Happy Planner Dividers Pack, Gold: amzn.to/2FIv42Y
• The Happy Planner Pen Holders, Pink/Black: amzn.to/2J3gpS3
• The Happy Planner Metal Expander Discs, Gold: amzn.to/2FXSnWT
• Pilot FriXion Erasable Pen - Fine Point - Black: amzn.to/2XwKXQF
• Pilot FriXion Erasable Pen - Fine Point - MultiColor Pack: amzn.to/2FmsAGy
• Pilot FriXion Erasable Highlighters - Light Pastel: amzn.to/2WTAXAJ
• Pilot FriXion Erasable Ball ColorSticks Gel Ink Pen: amzn.to/2WPpulE
• Pilot FriXion Erasable Fineliner Marker Pen - MultiColor Pack: amzn.to/2KdDYZo
• Papermate Flair Pen - Medium Point - Black: amzn.to/2LYWyXw
• Gelly Roll White Opaque Pens: amzn.to/2QzHezC or (joann) bit.ly/2JLY5P6
• Daiso Highlighters 5pk - Pastel: amzn.to/2IcXy5k
• Sharpie Highlighters 5pk - Assorted Colors: amzn.to/2YVkrRd
• Zebra Mildliners - Assorted Packs: amzn.to/30T9u3W
• Recollections Washi Tape Organizer: (michaels) bit.ly/2K6nnVA
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[@jazzflavs]

Thanks for the great tutorial. This just saved me from spending $40 USD on dividers that i can fully make myself. They were even going to be the same frosted transparent ones. I am enjoying watching your videos. You have great tips and the layouts are awesome. They have given me several ideas for my planner.

[@squairdplans]

Glad to hear it! Happy DIY’ing! 😁👍🏼

[@scifithinker8899]

All of a sudden, I have plans for the weekend!

[@shinellep.3114]

I love this! This is exactly what I needed to see. I love DIY, and these are definitely giving Cloth and Paper for a fraction of the cost. Time to hit up my local Dollar Tree!!

[@squairdplans]

Glad it was helpful! Happy planning!

[@bajoy273]

The washi hack is brilliant! I love this idea of using the chopping mats cos they're more pliable than the original dashboards. I use one as a weekly marker but since it's so thick and stiff, I don't think it will last very long, don't think it's meant to withstand my weekly peel off/put back to mark my current week in my planner.

[@squairdplans]

Thanks! And FYI, I find it is easier to move the page forward each week with those thicker dashboards. Then I only have to move the dashes maybe once a month when I swap my monthly marker. 😁👍🏼

[@jayme1383]

I was able to punch this exact material with my HP punch. Great tutorial!

[@squairdplans]

Good to know! TFS!

[@irenebonomo4575]

Great video! You are so talented! I love someone who shares an idea that they thought of and then shares it with other people who might be able to use it. I worked in a school and that was one of the words that every teacher used (THANKS FOR SHARING)! It really is nice of you!

[@squairdplans]

Happy to share! Everyone should enjoy crafting and planning...what good is it to hoard ideas?! Let’s just all make stuff! 😁👍🏼

[@amieparham7657]

I did this a couple weeks ago and I LOVE my diy dashboards! I think I need to make a couple more. The washi hack is a great idea! I did put mine through my HP punch though. It wasn't thrilled with me, but it did work eventually.

[@squairdplans]

That is impressive that you were able to punch thru! 😮👍🏼 I wanted to try but mine jams on the thinnest of plastic so I didn’t chance it.

[@twalls6750]

I already have these mats as a cover for my half sheet notebook. I've been thinking about making dividers. Great idea

[@squairdplans]

Sweet! Happy DIY'ing!

[@BlackDogDesigns]

Great idea, I will definitely be trying this! I laminate a lot of things for my planner and yes you are right, that single hole punch really gives your hand and forearms a workout 😊

[@squairdplans]

I’ve thought about investing in a laminator...what do you make other covers?

[@BlackDogDesigns]

I really enjoy my laminator, I’ve made dividers and book marks with card stock and even Cricut Vinyl, my laminator is for 3 & 5 ml sheets and I think for a sturdy cover you would need a 10 ml laminator. I did make a note book for my sticky notes , I have a video on it so if you would like I could leave you a link or my channel is called Plan_With_BlackDogDesigns if you would like to check it out😀

[@squairdplans]

Yeah, leave me the video so I can check it out! 😀👍🏼

[@BlackDogDesigns]

Ok, here’s the link to my video😊 kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3rUpHmGp5x1fNk

[@elyssabarajas3554]

I made my own covers, dividers, and bookmarks with my laminator

[@BlueZion9]

Excellent work

[@squairdplans]

Many thanks

[@WendyMyFairOne]

I got my cutting mats... I got 16 pks for all my planners and other binders since I’m a teacher!!!!

[@squairdplans]

Get it girl! Sounds like you got yourself a diy party! 😁👍🏼

[@shaleniavanorsdale93]

Saving for the near future. For the video and comments. Thanks Stephanie for making the video cause i was thinking about searching for diy dashboards later on. I'm findin several helpful videos of yours for HP tips/hacks & DIYs. Thank You So Much‼

[@squairdplans]

So glad it was helpful!

[@rebeccaherrera6006]

YEEEEESSSS!!! Thank you SO MUCH for that tutorial

[@squairdplans]

Happy to share!

[@h.s.s.3881]

The washi hack is brilliant!

[@squairdplans]

Glad you found it useful! 😁👍🏼

[@barbra429]

These are super easy to cut out to if you have a Cricut machine, makes a nice precise cut

[@squairdplans]

Yeah, I wish I did. I just saw a video on how to do it and looks much faster.

[@barbra429]

@@squairdplans How do you make the title/subject stickers that go on the tabs?

[@token787]

WoW! Thank You So Much for showing us how to make dashboards and sharing!

[@squairdplans]

Happy to share!

[@NCarolinaplans]

I use these mats all the time...how did I not think of this? Genius!

[@squairdplans]

Ha! Sometimes you just need an idea to spark creativity! 😉

[@kimberlyhoward7896]

This is an awesome project 💕!

[@squairdplans]

Thanks! 😁❤️

[@beccaplans]

Omg. This is cool! I used the same chopping mats to make a Big HP cover set. Edit: I need to make some of these dashboards and some monthly dividers using this technique!

[@squairdplans]

That would be awesome, Becca! Love diy’ing things!🤗💕

[@rebeccahawes7175]

I know it’s been a year since you posted but thank you thank you thank you for saving me soooo much money today. 😂

[@squairdplans]

😆 I'm so glad you saw it just in time! 🤑

[@tanyadangl3107]

Get yourself a corner punch to round out the corners of the dashboards and your planner pages. I did mine and I love how they look now. There is also decorative corner cutters you can get that make scalloped edges and lace style edges. Love your channel ❤️

[@elyssabarajas3554]

I got one and it is awesome cuz I can't cut to save my life

[@WeyMama]

You have BLOWN my mind with using a regular round hole punch for this, omg. LOL

[@WeyMama]

Oh--Have you ever tried using wet-erase markers on these? Probably better on the shiny side than the matte side.

[@squairdplans]

Good idea! I haven't tried it though, If you do, let us know how it goes!

[@charlenetorres5488]

Well done. The mats seem surprisingly easy to cut into. Tfs.

[@squairdplans]

It is thinner than the dashboards I purchased which is great for this application and easier to move around in my planner! Win-win! 😁👍🏼

[@mariabennett6327]

Fabulous idea. I have a pack of those mats in my cupboard. Guess what I'll be doing tonight?? 😉

[@squairdplans]

Nice! Lemme know how it went!

[@beverlycraddock6700]

Great and very economical...ty

[@squairdplans]

You bet!

[@nathaliedorne3867]

Great trick to punch with a regular punch and then use the scissors !!! I was about to buy a planner punch but they are so expensive !!! Thanks.

[@squairdplans]

I totally understand! It is a thrifty option. :)

[@jennifergentry144]

You are amazing! I’m gonna go to Dollar Tree today!😉

[@squairdplans]

Ha! Have fun making stuff! 😁👍🏼

[@TinaPlansLife]

Thank you! Going get ALL my products I need now to do this today. Wish me luck.

[@squairdplans]

Have fun! 😁👍🏼

[@briannawatkins6716]

Child! I have been LOOKING for this! THANK YOU!!!!!!

[@squairdplans]

Happy you found it!

[@anneirish1611]

Dang amazing hack!

[@squairdplans]

Right?! Wish I was the first one to think of it!

[@bethyoung3654]

Such a cool idea! Thank you!

[@squairdplans]

Glad you liked it! Happy planning!

[@reneebarrette4514]

You are BRILLIANT!!!!!!

[@squairdplans]

Thanks! It is not an original idea, though. It’s has been around for a while...I just revived it. 😉

[@reneebarrette4514]

@@squairdplans I can't wait to do this for myself too!

[@ginagreene5668]

WOW!!!! what a great idea!

[@squairdplans]

This is definitely not an original idea, but I am happy to share it for those who have never seen it before. 😉👍🏼

[@anitadally8991]

💕💕💕💕awesome! Can’t wait to make some this weekend!

[@squairdplans]

Have fun! 😁👍🏼

[@monicaarismendez2060]

You made it look so easy!

[@squairdplans]

It’s not too bad. I already worked out the bugs for you, so you should be able to get it done pretty easily! 😁👍🏼

[@gregsaramasarik2421]

This is a fantastic hack and a great video. Thank you!

[@squairdplans]

Happy to share!

[@tsiggie808]

Loving this idea! Can't wait to get started. Thank you!

[@squairdplans]

Thanks! Happy DIY’ing! 😁👍🏼

[@HistoryHighwithLisaMarrie]

I just finished making these about an hour ago and THEN I find your video! The washi was a good idea my tab would probably look a bit cleaner using your method.

[@squairdplans]

Of course! 😉 Isn’t that always how things work out?! Well, now you have a tip or 2 for next time. 😁👍🏼

[@barbra429]

You can use wet erase markers

[@Mamadriggs]

this is brilliant!!!

[@squairdplans]

Glad to hear it!

[@gardencoopgal1534]

Great tutorial- thanks so much for sharing- off to do some creating!! :-)

[@squairdplans]

Yay! Have fun and customize! 😁👍🏼

[@MakingCreativeMemoriesinThyme]

Brilliant idea 🥰

[@squairdplans]

Not a squaird plans original...but happy to revive it and share with y’all! 😁👍🏼

[@michelletufau9556]

I know I’m late to this video, but I’ve just found you and HP! You’re amazing! Can you tell me if you prefer these or the HP dashboards that you have treated with acetone? I’m learning so much from you . I’m on my own health journey and you have inspired me to be more accountable. Thank you.

[@squairdplans]

I prefer the acetone ones only because they are easier to make and a bit more uniform.i like the diy version but the plastic doesn’t seem as ridged (flat) and is harder to prep (really it’s the punching that is the hard part). Both are great options though. 😁👍🏼

[@SimplyShaunteRenee]

Great video, thank you for sharing!

[@squairdplans]

You bet! Thanks for watching!

[@iggyri6977]

Very cool !

[@squairdplans]

Thanks! 😁❤️

[@barbra429]

You can use a wet erase pen and it comes right off with a wet wipe.

[@squairdplans]

Smart! Great tip! 😁👍🏼

[@barbra429]

@@squairdplans 🙂

[@cbm818]

Great idea!

[@squairdplans]

Thanks!

[@donnabaker3036]

love this idea!!!

[@squairdplans]

Thanks! Dashboards are so useful! 😁👍🏼

[@terribeaverson2997]

Love it! Thanks for sharing with us 😊

[@squairdplans]

Of course! Always happy to share! 😁👍🏼

[@flowersafeheart]

What a clever video!!! Really gets me warmer to sorting out my switch to discs which needs to be very budget-friendly for now. BIG QUESTION: How do you label them?!! I find so far mainly pens just smear on labels and plastics and stickers don't always stick. Grrr! Writing on cardstock works but then I'd need to do extra step to laminate and that wouldn't be a type of label I can swap out.

[@squairdplans]

I labeled these with my dymo label maker using the clear tape. The labels were very durable and the labeler can be found at walmart, target, etc. so it's fairly budget friendly. :)

[@flowersafeheart]

@@squairdplans Thanks so much!! I'll look up that label maker! I just finished making cardstock dividers for my first ever discbound notebook tonight using normal hole punch and scissors!! Haven't labeled them yet. Plastic disc set at Staples like $3, cardstock at Michaels was cheap and in many colors, disc puncher not in very tight budget yet so for now just got $6 pack of pre-punched lined/dotted Martha Stewart pages! Later will make clear covers from Dollar Tree cutting mats! Not bad for a low-cost start!!! Making my own insert layouts and colors I like were important to me.

[@mazzy2121]

Brilliant! I see this vid is from 2019 so you may never see this comment and I may repeat it on another vid (unless I find you've already covered it). I am wondering basically how full you can make a Happy Planner, in terms of franken-planning and adding sections. I see they have large discs, but, looking a 'section' as a month, about how many sections can you get with the regular discs before you have to upgrade?

[@squairdplans]

I had 3 planners (1 month each) plus note paper, reference section, pocket folders, etc. on 1.25” classic discs very comfortably back in 2019. I found I needed a bit more disc wise when I moved up to 5-6 planner sections and am now at 1.5” discs. I’m usually good till the end on the month when I have to add in the next months spreads early to complete the month. It is not an exact answer but would say you would be fine on classic discs for up to 4 months worth of planner pages + 1/3 of accessories/extra sections.

[@vickistjohn3729]

GENIUS 🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩😔😔😔😔

[@squairdplans]

Happy you think so! Have fun making these! 😁👍🏼

[@ThankfulNanaDiane]

I just made myself a set of these. I have the single disc bound punch from We R Memory Keepers. I’m using the metal HP discs. The dividers are pretty tight on the discs & a little bit of a challenge to flip through. Will they loosen up with use? Thanks so much! 😊

[@squairdplans]

Not really but you can manually loosen them by widening the stems of the mushroom holes a bit with a pair of scissors. Just snip a smidge off one or both sides of each hole and they will turn like butter. 😉

[@ThankfulNanaDiane]

@@squairdplans Simple fix! Thanks so much! 😊❤️

[@ThankfulNanaDiane]

Ha! I think I’m the only one who watches this now! 😂 Have you found a way to get TWO of these dividers with the SIDE tabs from ONE chopping mat? I’m not good with math, so I figured it’s possible I’m missing something. 😂 Thanks!

[@squairdplans]

The longest side is 14" and half of that is 7" which leaves no space for a tab if you are creating for HP classic size. It would need to be at least 14.5" wide in order to do so, unfortunately.

[@ThankfulNanaDiane]

I went ahead & bit the bullet & made 1 divider from each chopping mat. I saved the larger scraps for who-knows-what?! 😂 Thanks!

[@squairdplans]

@@ThankfulNanaDiane top tabs perhaps? 😁👍

[@maeliizquierdo6951]

Great video. DASHBOARD are too expensive for what they are, i always wait for a sale. But i enjoy DIY projects!

[@squairdplans]

You and me both!

[@StaCs7]

Do you just label them with a label maker? Can these be done with a Cricut?

[@squairdplans]

Yes, and Yes. I used my Dymo label maker for these, but have also labeled dashboards with label sheets I printed on my home printer. As for cutting with Cricut, I know it can be done but do not have one of my own to instruct you on how to do it.

[@ThankfulNanaDiane]

Great ideas! Thanks! Just curious why they’re called dashboards rather than dividers?

[@squairdplans]

The happy planner called them dashboards and I believe it is because planners would use them to hold sticky notes on, but it is just another term. I say divider when I refer to side tabs and dashboards for top tabs. 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@ThankfulNanaDiane]

Good to know! Thanks!

[@jandjmom]

Great tip! Do you think the mat would be large enough to make a divider/ dashboard for a big happy planner?

[@squairdplans]

Definitely, but you would only get one divider per mat I think. Good thing they are so cheap! 😁

[@clairestilwill5284]

this is such a clever idea! ps these are dividers not dashboards

[@squairdplans]

It’s weird because happy planner calls them dashboards but I’ve also heard them called tabs and dividers.🤷🏽‍♀️

[@leslieryan6300]

is the red plastic page part of a set or did u also make it?

[@squairdplans]

That was a premade dashboard from happy planner that I used as a guide. I like it but the red is too strong for my planner.

[@barbra429]

How did you do the stickers on the tabs how do you write on them?

[@squairdplans]

They are label stickers I made using my Dymo label maker. 👍🏼

[@barbra429]

@@squairdplans oh nice

[@StellaBlueMama]

Could a Silhouette machine cut these? Has anyone tried that?

[@squairdplans]

Good question! I heard that a circut will but idk for sure.

[@jenea1976]

Love this. What do you use to label you dividers at the top?

[@squairdplans]

I have a Dymo labeler, the basic model. You can find it Walmart, target, etc. 😁👍🏼

[@LadyDewinter]

You should sell these...

[@squairdplans]

If I had the time and resources...maybe. 🤔 But there are other planner babes doing their own versions on Etsy so I’m happy to let them do it. 😁