5 Easy Holiday Bookbinding Projects for Kids

Fun, kid-friendly crafts using simple supplies (perfect for winter break!)

Winter break is a great time to slow down and get creative with kids. These easy bookbinding projects are a perfect mix of art, storytelling, and hands-on fun. They make great gifts and encourage kids to explore their imagination. Even better, the supplies are simple and affordable—many are things you already have at home.

Each project below includes a free tutorial. Some are available as YouTube videos, while others are offered as videos with printable guides. Ready to make something fun? Let’s get started!

1. DIY Brown Bag Book

Simple folded book made from a paper bag – great for kids ages 6+

Supplies:

• Square paper (try a brown paper bag, gift wrap, or geli print)
• Glue stick
• Scissors
• Optional: washi tape, ribbon, or stickers

This little book starts with one sheet of paper. Fold it a few times and you’ll have a tiny journal. Kids can fill it with drawings, notes, or stories. They can also decorate the outside with markers and tape. Best of all, this project is quick and easy.

📌 Get the step-by-step Brown Bag Book tutorial.

2. Folded Paper Envelope Book

Folded pocket book perfect for tiny treasures – ages 8+

Supplies:

• 1 sheet of paper (9” x 12” works well)
• Ruler and pencil
• Scissors or craft knife
• Optional: elastic cord and button

Here’s a book that hides pockets inside! It starts as a single sheet of paper, then folds into a small accordion-style book. The pockets are perfect for storing notes, gift cards, or small stickers. Add a button and elastic loop for a fun closure. This book makes a great handmade gift.

📌 Watch me make this project on YouTube.

3. Watercolor Squash Book

Interactive painting and folding project – ideal for ages 8+

Supplies:

• 3 sheets of watercolor or mixed media paper (8” x 8”)
• Watercolor paints or gouache
• Brushes and glue stick

This project combines painting and paper folding. First, kids decorate each square page with watercolor. Next, they fold and glue the pages together. The result is a book that opens like a flower. It’s colorful and playful, and it’s great for showing off art or writing a short story.

📌 Get the free step-by-step tutorial.

4. Mini Leather Accordion Journal

Mini photo book or keepsake – great for ages 10+ and teens

Supplies:

• Scrap leather, Kraft-tex, or cork fabric
• 2 strips of paper (about 3” x 12”)
• Small photos or collaged art
• Glue and ribbon or twine

This small accordion book feels like a treasure. Kids fold the paper panels, attach them inside the leather cover, and add photos or written memories. Wrap it up with twine or ribbon. It’s a great project for older kids and makes a thoughtful homemade gift.

📌 Free video tutorial available on YouTube

5. Washi Tape Journal

Colorful stitched journal for beginners – ages 8+

Supplies:

• Printer paper (folded into two small stacks)
• File folders for covers
• Washi tape or collage materials
• Needle and thread

This stitched journal is bright, colorful, and fun. Kids decorate the cover with washi tape, then sew in the folded pages. They can add pockets inside for tiny notes or drawings. This is a great first bookbinding project and a nice way to use washi tape from your collection.

📌 Get the free tutorial + printable instructions.

Creative, Kid-Friendly Fun This Winter

These bookmaking projects are a great way to spend time together during winter break. They are easy to set up, and they help kids express themselves through art and storytelling. Plus, each book can become a gift, a keepsake, or a special place to write or draw.

So gather some paper, grab some glue, and enjoy a cozy craft day together. Happy making!