Preparing my next composition book for journaling

[@heathermattern]

I adore finding other people who are composition book fans. Your journals are gorgeous!! They have inspired me to get more creative.

[@MelanieSullivan]

Aw, thank you!

[@DulceMedrano-f8e]

If I had seen this during 2020, I would have held on to my BOXES of transparency sheets instead of purging my shed of extra supplies because....what else was I suppose to do at that time! UUUUUGH! I absolutely loved the sewing!

[@pamsauce8936]

I know this is an old video, BUT I LOVE YOUR STYLE OF SHOWING THE PROCESS!!! I Hope you are still making videos!!!

[@SharitCreations]

Same here! Because of her I'm going to use my acetate clear Film to cover mine.

[@emmanashdavis1326]

Sometimes it not the need for journals, but just the joy of making them. You can also make journal/composition books and give them away to friends, Med staff, coworkers. You be surprised how happy you would make someone, knowing that you took time out to think of them. I do different crafting , I gift 🎁 to my coworkers and they love it. I get a chance to let my artsy. Crafty skills go but I don’t have that at home build up. Plus I’ve seen folks using them.

[@jaieatsplants]

This video is so satisfying in so many ways! To see all of your journals with varying styles of writing and using up what you have, I’m hooked on your channel now. Bought Lynda Barry’s book and now I want a sewing machine! I have one juicy composition book and have started another one more in the glue book style. I want to be unstuck and this video sparked something I needed. Thanks so much, more “quick” videos like these please 😂🙏🏽💓💓💓💓 *more on gloss varnish please!

[@PatWalker-mq7ir]

Am loving these glue books. They are so awesome and inspirational. They are gorgeous and fun!!! TFS 😘

[@ritalira6869]

I’m just getting into these composition journals and you gave such valuable information!! I’m a retired school teacher so I have a box of transparencies! Yea! Thank you for all your tips! I will binge your videos! 💕

[@ritalira6869]

Oh: Oct. 11, 2024. I will be using this video as my blueprint on my composition journals!! I will be numbering my journals, adding my name on cover, sewing, etc LOVE THIS! Hope you are well.

[@oddanneout]

Really awesome creativity! ❤ I love the idea of painting over a copy of past artwork - adds more dimension. 👌🏼

[@clc3897]

Today I decided I was gonna sew. Cause I gotta use up all the inspiration I got from all your sewing videos as of late. Now I’m thinking I should get back to my poetry journals. What am I gonna do... I just hope I won’t run out of quarantine time with all the things I want to do and all the projects I have in mind. You have to do some journal with me videos. I’m dying to see what people are journaling about these days. Especially since I told my students that they should be keeping a journal during these historic times. I want to show them what you’re doing, so they can learn from more than one person. ❤️🥰❤️

[@wrapsbyrachel5571]

yes, students and people of all ages should be journaling during these historic times -- it is an activity and can really help with creativity and stress managment. I am up to #4 just for corona virus (feel free to check out my youtube channel to see what I've been doing). Maybe one day it will be part of a PhD history research ! :-)

[@BittyPenny]

I miss you so much!! I pray you and family are doing fabulous ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@GothicKitty22]

I've been doing this for most of my life. I used to just use Composition notebooks, but at some point I decided to start making my own covers and stuff. Yours are gorgeous!

[@MelanieSullivan]

Thanks so much! I have a composition book from the 1950s that someone used as a glue book, so I love carrying on the tradition!

[@kayr6422]

Thank you, Melanie. I use your transparency idea all the time. Thank you, thank you.

[@csbradshaw407]

Melanie, hope you are still around filling up comp books. I’ve been binging these vids and would love to see what you’ve been up to recently

[@pixelpioneer_3011]

The covers are beautiful! I cannot wait to see your flip through of the journals.

[@SharitCreations]

You have given me great ideas! I don't have the projector film cover sheet so I'm using my acetate clear plastic cover. I heard on other journal videos people use that on the front and back covers of their journals.

[@Solaeandcraft]

Love love love your page and those notebooks 💖💕

[@bbodalski]

So fun! I had to get this Lynda Barry book and I have gotten all my supplies together for making a mess in my journal! So excited

[@katsmith8263]

Definitely inspired!!!👍👍🥰🥰❤️

[@tfntexas]

Thanks for the great video! I hope you’re staying healthy. It’s not really bothering me to have to stay home since I really enjoy it anyway...just wish I was a little more productive. I have been making lap blankets sort of for keepsakes for my three adult kids. I pieced together 40 squares of various fabrics and then I’m slow stitching on each square. The back looks awful with all of the knots, etc. but the front looks really cool. I’m starting on my third one. Thanks for all your inspiration!

[@ashleykayejournals8284]

I would love to see a flip through of your journal! They look very gorgeous. 💗

[@lindagoehlen256]

I was wondering what to do with the boring covers. I love this idea! Thanks for sharing!

[@coralikessocks2474]

the six people who disliked couldn't see the like button because their eyes were filled with tears because this is just so beautiful

[@MelanieSullivan]

I like your spin on that, Cora! I need to think like that more often. Thanks for watching!

[@happymailmagic]

I just came across your channel & I gotta tell ya... Although this is the very 1st video of your's that I've watched... But I do believe I'm hooked! I'll probably be binge watching all your videos starting this evening! Your journals are so beautiful & you make it look so easy! I'm definitely going to try my hand at it! Thank You for sharing your awesome ideas! I got an Amazon gift card for Christmas & I haven't even taken it out of the card it came in! But I think I want that book you recommended, so I'm going to go dig my gift card out & order it & the tape you use for bookbinding! The only thing is that I've never owned a sewing machine!!! I'll be turning 41 on February 5th & I think its time I look into getting one! If for nothing else, than to sew paper like you do to your covers! You are amazing & I can't wait to dig in to more of your content! ~🙏💙🙏Much Graditude, Erica Meares🙏💙🙏~

[@pambuike4587]

I found composition books from Vietnam at Wal-Mart in the school supply section. The brand name is UStyle...under $2...they only had one box full compared to many other boxes of the cheaper brand, but glad I took the time to look at each brand. Good luck ladies...hope you find them too. So anxious to start my journal but waiting for the Syllabus book!!!

[@minajones1635]

Thank you for all these useful tips! I appreciate you creating and sharing this video for those of us who are beginning this journey! 😊

[@ehrikalord1340]

Thank you for sharing your gifts as well as inspiration! I love the book you recommended; that's what I adore about this community 💚

[@roksannastephens4375]

Excellent tips and directions. That front cover is so awesome!

[@jenniferedwards6238]

Oh my! My love of composition books just went to the next level with this video!

[@bettelovelace4456]

Melanie.. I love your journals 👏👏💜..just put her book on my Santa list for Christmas !! Really enjoyed the video TFS 💜💜💜

[@yvonnepoo4033]

I adore these journals! I wish you would sell some ready to go. I also love your hand writing!

[@NeverHopelessbyElizabeth]

I was recently introduced to your channel by a sweet sub of mine, and I'm so glad she did!! Loving your covers and the acetate is genius :) I've been using comp books for my journals for years and really enjoy them. Thanks for the inspiration!!

[@MelanieSullivan]

Welcome, Elizabeth! I've been a subbie of yours for a while and really enjoy your videos. You convinced me to subscribe to Mantra magazine, although now that I'm receiving it, I think I need two subscriptions... one to cut up and one to keep. :-)

[@Pegaluce]

Well I was looking for help on what to do to create a JUnk Journal and you sure have left me with a lot to think about and help me. TY for sharing so much of what you have done and how to create your next journal. I do not sew so I will probably use Skor Tape to put the covers on the Composition books when I get them...and I might even have transparencies to cover them...or I will use shipping tape that I use for my Glue Books.

[@austenspapertree8429]

Thank you soo much! Your video put me in an creative mood... That had not happened in days and I really need it. These times are soo unsettling. I´m quit helpless in the face of so much anxieties ridden thoughts in my head. Its not helpful. And I know it, but can´t stop. Even your lovely dry wit seams to have a day of.... I ordered Syllabus! Thanks for the recommendation and your warm words.

[@sylviaclark5376]

Hello, love your composition books. I alter mine into vintage ones. Thanks for sharing.

[@aliceadler4569]

I do love these!!! I thought I was the only one. ♥️♥️♥️

[@lydiasalinas5106]

I love how you add the volume number on the spine

[@TheCelestialhealer]

Just perfect!! Love them all, love your style. Will look for your recommendation.🎉

[@srivirao]

Girl you are so cool.I subbed. Loved your review on Lynda Barrys books.I ordered syllabus.

[@DonnaHarris3578]

At last someone who shows how to do the cover. Thank you!! I’m going to look for the composition notebooks that are made in Vietnam.

[@JanetDoucette]

Your composition books are wonderful! I have enjoyed so many of your videos today... this did not disappoint!!!

[@gaingaran81]

Very nice journals. I didn't know know you can sow the cover of the composition notebook.

[@marthamurphy7940]

Thank you. Very cool! I used to journal in composition books. I love them. Now I have arthritis in my hands, so I journal on my computer. I'm going to print the entries. Maybe I'll do my next art journal in a composition book.

[@stephcalvaresi1991]

Just placed an order with Amazon. Thank you for pulling it all together in this tutorial. LOL-The comment about writing the volume with Velcro-still laughing 😂. TFS. I started keeping a journal 📓 in 2019 and called it my escape journal. I filled it completely. Working in it brought immense joy and want to continue this writing and art process. Have a good one!

[@barbclark69]

Thanks for this, Melanie. I am tremendously i spired by Lynda Barry too, and I love the direction you’ve taken your books in.

[@craftwithlove5580]

Came across your video in a way of looking to watch another crafter create in her composition book ❤.

[@rhondawilliams2140]

I just fell in love with this.

[@melissatest7963]

I too use a composition book on a regular basis although I just made myself a junk journal. I can't wait to see the flip through of all the books individually. Thank you for sharing~

[@quiltedclothdesigns]

I bought Lynda's book based on your video and OMG-life changing!!! Thank you for sharing this and inspiring me.

[@lisajmascord8183]

Wow. Those covers are stunning. Love those. I’ve read about Lynda Barry and have a couple of her books including the one you showed.🤗

[@sunshyjournaling]

This is so much fun! I need to do a video of showing off some of my past journals.

[@judyrobertson9479]

Wow, so many great ideas. Thank you.

[@siobhanirish1307]

A MAZ ING!!!! Your journals are just fantastic. I love them so much! I use composition books, too, but I have not made mine as amazing as your are! I think I have just been inspired!! I subscribed to your channel before I was even half way through your video.

[@simmyjester]

I love these notebooks. And if you don't have a sewing machine, you can use an awl (or small hole poking tool, you can find similar things in the beading or clay sections of your local craft store) and go around the edge with embroidery floss. :)

[@bethieb8160]

I have been trying so hard to get passed my creative junk journaling block and I think you just saved me! Thank you for the book recommendation as well

[@orlaithyarrow]

Great video!!!Very inspiring!Ive never tried something like this before!We are going to give it a shot with my daughters!

[@kirstenbuckhalt5280]

i love your style!!!

[@Paperlover123]

These are such a wonderful collection! Your daughter will love to have them one day! Stunning covers, pockets and pages!!!!🌷🐇🌸

[@mkaysartfuljourney1239]

New subby here just came across your videos!❤️💯🙏🏻 I love your ideas, I have made these journals in the past. Always gluing two pages together and Washi taping the edge of the papers.

[@PrintPraySlay]

Love how your journal turned out! This is so creative.

[@jennifersullivan4823]

Wow what a cool idea I am into changing children books into journals but this is a great idea thanks for the inspiration. Breathtaking, I have so many art journals, writing journals, altered journals...

[@MelanieSullivan]

Glad it was helpful!

[@pattimoose1]

I love using composition books and loved your video!!

[@marthagomez-sanchez4440]

Love your style...thank you!

[@melodine707]

Love using Comp books. I ordered the book you mentioned and can't wait to get it and make a new comp book.

[@MelanieSullivan]

You'll love Lynda Barry's book!

[@kathyn3978]

I’ve been binge watching your videos after scoring on some blank composition books at a thrift shop. I saw one where you(?) glued pages together. Now I’m watching this and you don’t even mention doing that. What have the viewers done that’s best? TFS!

[@jlhyndman]

Hi Kathy, I’m not Melanie but I watch a couple of different YT’ers that use comp books so I know what you’re talking about. I believe that you may have seen Elizabeth at NeverHopeless and confused her with Melanie Sullivan perhaps. I know for sure that Elizabeth has done the gluing pages in preparation in the past. I don’t remember Melanie suggesting that though I may be wrong.

[@paperstoryjournals]

This is a great idea. Gotta see if I can find those transparent sheets. I use to have a ton but I donated them to teachers who needed them.

[@ThaBloodWitch]

Here from Heather Mattern's channel and omg, what you do to those books is amazing! I thought I was fancy just for putting washi on the spines. 😅

[@esliet]

Amazing journals

[@KittehNow]

THESE are so FUN.. I ,OVE THEM

[@ChrisSaenz13]

This video is so helpful... thank you!!! I'm just getting started with my 1st one!!!

[@lucylushedoe3090]

thank u! fun to get a peek inside!

[@gpat7788]

Absolutely beautiful! I love it!

[@victoriakerr2089]

Wow I’m impressed and inspired - thanks

[@BexfromTexas]

I guess I could try this on a spiral notebook? Just use a slightly different approach. I really enjoyed your video! Thanks:) During this time I get tired of quilting & sewing & needle work....switching to working with paper is a welcome change.

[@nadiahrakhanandarialni1473]

I always loving your works😭🍭❤, please keep making video for inspiring me to be more creative😭🍭🥺

[@careyclapp8357]

Oh my goodness Melanie I LOVE these journals so much! I am totally inspired to start one! Thanks for explaining how you choose your composition books, I always feel the paper so I get the good ones. I now will also be checking to see where they were made! Off I go to check my composition supply...

[@diansdesigns7759]

I used your idea with the acetate and made a shaker cover. thank you

[@emilyelizabeth5094]

I’ve never related to someone more 😂 you start a new journal at the drop of a hat and I’m exactly the same

[@MelanieSullivan]

The struggle is real, right! I get bored so easily and want something new. Maybe I need to start making my journals with only about 10 pages so I'll fill them up in a few of days and have a real excuse to make a new one! Thanks for stopping by!

[@reneshay889]

Absolutely STUNNING!

[@Erica_Marie_]

This is so pretty 😍😍😍

[@ellescrapper]

I really enjoyed your take on one of the most relaxing things to do in your life in recording what go's in it, through junk journaling, tfs. In His Grace Lorisa

[@kristinaperinot7544]

THANK YOU SO MUCH....must do this. Bought the book ❤️👍🏻

[@MelanieSullivan]

Hope you like it!

[@robindonnelly]

Thank you! I thoroughly enjoyed this.

[@DoloresJRush]

I began a composition notebook journal in 2019 which I call my Positivity Notebook. The first was done in the weekly planner format and this year has been in the bullet journal format. There has been pro-cons to both formats. I began the journal on the advice of my therapist to keep me from being depressed about my family problems. I was curious to know how you added a shiny front to your notebook, so had to stop and watch your video. I didn't know somebody had actually written a book on the how-to's of composition notebook journaling. smile! I bought mine cause it was cheap and I didn't have to make my own book. My journal's signature got really wonky last year and was like BIG BERTHA. This year I've been switching it up- I turn it upside down from month to month to see if that helps with the wonkiness. It seems to have helped, except I had to add a different pocket to each end cause things kept falling out. I also use a stretchy hairband to keep my notebook closed. I have flip-throughs each month of my journal on my channel.

[@ziziscorsese9475]

Very impressive!

[@Karma111284]

Thank you so much! Very very helpful. Loved seeing all your journals! Hope your staying safe and getting things done lol

[@roseoakone]

Yes prep tutorial ❤

[@mixedupmargie]

Love these 💚💜

[@dorothym166]

I just love these!!

[@tracyheberlie4831]

I love this!! Your journals are just perfect! You’ve inspired me ❤️

[@julesboyle6059]

please do a flip through!

[@emmanashdavis1326]

Looking at the way you work, you should have a class at community center, after school program or senior citizen center. I can see folks really enjoying themselves with you. Most composition vlogs are not sewn but glued/ mod podge. I thought it was laminated. I have some old acetate clear projector film too. Now I know what to do with it.

[@Imdone767]

I don't sew, and I tried making a glue junk journal which was a hot mess. I bought a composition notebook and I'm going to try your method. Ty

[@diannepickhardt1407]

I LOVE your “marker florals”, would you consider making those into digitals for purchase? Really any of your artwork would be amazing if it were digitally available!! You are incredibly talented and I absolutely love your style and use of bright colors.

[@ashleykayejournals8284]

I was thinking the same thing! LoveLynnsLife makes her collage pages available on her Patreon and Etsy shop and I bet these would be popular as well!

[@MelanieSullivan]

That's a great idea! I might!

[@GwynWalker]

Love your idea! TFS.

[@starschloneger958]

Love, love, love your journals. Any suggestions on how to attach the clear film if you can’t sew it on with a machine?

[@MelanieSullivan]

Star, I think you could stitch it on by hand if you pre-punched your holes with an awl or screw-punch. You could place the holes about a half inch apart and then just lace your thread through. I might try it and see how it works.

[@Pegaluce]

You have inspired me to try crating in a composition book. I also need a link to when you make those little fabric snippets you showed...or the person who showed you...I would like their video...I cannot seem to find it.

[@pamsauce8936]

❤❤❤LOVE THESE❤❤❤🎉

[@frejahowells3215]

Love you journal planner how did you draw your calendar

[@trinacorbett4827]

I gently peel off the top layer ... underneath is a beautiful white. ... sometimes not always.