Folio Fun

Ideas using this new Folio die designed by Eileen Hull for Sizzix gives us loads of possibilities to create with. The idea I will be sharing here is a “white on white” album using a canvas type of material. It is embellished with cuts from a thinlit set of dies using the same material and layered to create the patterned motif on the front and back covers. 

I cut the folio covers from a product called Kreative Kanvas  (which is unfortunately no longer available) but is VERY similar to a product called Kraft Tex. This material can be cut, sewn, glued and colored. Since it does not have the thickness of mat board it will leave a faint score line at the necessary places.  NOTE: If Kraft Tex is unavailable, a thick artist canvas could likely be substituted.

Cut 2 pieces for the folio front and back covers. Cut design elements for layering using desired thinlit dies and the same material.

Back cover design 

***Refer to the photos that show the folding and stitching to create the album. NOTE: I stitched around the covers on 3 sides, leaving the top open to insert tags or other elements. It can also be completely stitched closed around all 4 sides. ***If no sewing machine is available, a fabric glue would work in place of stitching. It would be suggested to glue and clamp with binder clips till glue dries well.  

TIP: A closure for the album is made with a strip of the the canvas-like material, cut approximately 1” x 7 or 8” long. It was sewn to the back, inside cover before sewing the folded inside back flap together. Glue one or two clear Velcro 5/8” circles or a strip to the end of the closure strip and inside the front cover.  

Finished inside back cover with pen holder and closure

Placement for closure strip

Visual guide for inside back cover

To make a pen holder - Cut two of the extra pieces, from the same material. Fold over the edges on both and glue them together. Glue to the inside of the back cover and add a pen.

To form the binding - 

Line up the holes of the binding with the front cover over the back, matching the holes and grooves. The binding can either be glued together or sewn. Follow the lines between the holes if stitching (2 lines) and finish with another stitched line about 1/8” or 1/16” from the edge closest to the back cover.  

Lay the decorative designs in any desired pattern. Glue the elements in place on the covers . Set aside till glue dries. 

Once the album is together I gave it a coat of a shimmery gesso. NOTE: Any clear finish of choice can used. Try a glitter brush from Scrapbook.com, Link

Lace elastic either through the holes or over the grooves to hold 3 album inserts inside the album. 

Finish with a organza bow tied around the binding or any other decorative finish. 

Make inserts for the inside using any choice of decorative papers for covers for the inside signatures and copy paper for for journaling. 

Materials

Eileen Hull Folio die by Sizzix

Folk Art Elements Set of thinlits by Sizzix

Kraft Tex, white

Sewing machine/white thread

Glue

Shimmery Gesso

Brush

Elastic, white

Ribbon

Velcro circles, 5/8" clear

Pen

Decorative papers 

Copy paper

Sharing two more ideas with the Folio die, each from different materials. 

Made from the plastic packaging from the die and decorated with Washi Tape

 

Made from a plastic folder from the Dollar Store