All About To-Do Lists: Decoupage a Notebook
We’ve talked in the past about the different methods for creating a to-do list that works for you, and I wanted to share more of my system with you today.
While I continue to love and use Microsoft OneNote faithfully, I’ve found that I’ve moved back to a paper list for my weekly and daily to-do lists. There is no doubt that OneNote provides unmatched flexibility for keeping projects and permanent records organized, and I’ve got sections set up for various long-term projects as well as our homeschooling records for this coming year. (Read more about how I use OneNote here.)
On the other hand, I’m using my trusty Steno pad more these days because I like being able to scribble all over the page, rewrite my lists as necessary and cross off tasks so I can actually see the progress I’m making. While I love the price of a Steno pad, I don’t really like using a plain Steno pad. I want something prettier since my pad is my constant companion these days.
I could spend the money on a prettier notebook or journal, but my compromise is to simply decoupage my own notepad cover. Let me assure you that while I like to attempt to be crafty, I end up with disasters as often as I end up with finished products, so if I can do this, anyone can.
Step-by-Step
To start, I simply find pictures in a magazine that I like. Some people make collages using many different small pictures, but I prefer to use larger images and just add a border or two (because I’m lazy?).
:: Spread the cover with ModPodge and center a large picture or arrange several smaller pictures over it.
:: Smooth the picture(s) from the inside out to eliminate most of the bubbles (any small bubbles will flatten out as it dries).
:: Add borders, letters or embellishments while it dries.
:: Once it’s dry, trim around the edges so that the picture no longer hangs off the edges.
:: Add a final coating of ModPodge over the cover to seal it.
The options for customizing your notebook are really limitless, and it’s a fun way to add a little bit of beauty to the mundane.
Todoolist
While we’re talking about to-do lists, I also want to tell you about Todoolist. I recently had the chance to read Nick Cernis’ ebook, which describes his Todoolist system, and if you’re looking for a way to get more out of your to-do list, I highly recommend this system. The ebook could easily be broken up into several shorter ebooks, but Nick packs 3 or 4 great systems into one ebook instead and offers it for just $14. With his 30-day money-back guarantee, I guarantee you won’t be disappointed!
Do you have a notebook or pad that you use regularly? Do you look for something “pretty” or just for something functional and budget-friendy?
I’m like you, I think computer programs are good but I like being able to write, scribble and cross off my to-do-lists also. Right now I’m using a pretty little notebook a friend gave me several years ago. (I just found it stashed away.)
Although I enjoy having a pretty notebook, as long as it’s functional, it really doesn’t matter too much to me what it looks like unless I have to take it out somewhere. Then I don’t want something that looks old, tattered or just plain ugly.
Thanks for the idea!
Amanda @ Mommy’s Idea Book’s last blog post…14 Ways to Save Time in the Kitchen
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I love this… I prefer legal pads (I’m not sure why), but I have little “journals” for my girls to draw and color in. They are more functional and simple, rather than pretty, and I know they would love helping me “decorate” their journals.
Fantastic! Thanks, Mandi!
Amy’s last blog post…Frugal Tuesday – Cloth Napkins
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What a pretty notebook, Mandi – that baby has SUCH cute toes
I love pretty notebooks – in fact, they’ve got to be pretty because I don’t like ugly things
Marcia Francois from Organising Queen’s last blog post…Favourite organising tools #15 – tote bags
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When I was in college, I bought a cheap little desk and decoupaged it all over! It took a long time to do and it started out first with stickers and then I got some ModPodge and put all sorts of things on it! It was really fun and even though the desk was about as sturdy as a leaf, I miss it!
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Funny I ran across this. I’ve got a planner for to do’s and a binder @ work. But I wanted to start keeping a journal like I used to when I was pregnant. I got a little notebook but it’s just so plain I was considering dood-ing up the front. Your idea came just at the right time.
Lori’s last blog post…It’s Summer Vacation Time
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We are on the same wavelenght – I just gave up my day planner for a simple notebood -I date it, then I write my lists. ON the back side of each page is where I keep the list of things I need to buy. I love it – no more huge planner stuffed in my purse!! Love the modge podge idea! SO fun!
JOY’s last blog post…Lower Your Standards
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