Recently I created my first two flip books. One was a Christmas themed flip book, the other had a coffee and tea theme. After posting the video, I received a comment that asked me to explain the purpose or reason for flip books. Since there are some question about flip books, I decided to try and explain based on the things I’ve come across in the crafting community.
About Flip Books
If you Google flip books or flipbooks, the results show plenty of multi page documents or booklets that you flip through ad an image on each page appears to move. This is similar to how cartoons are created. A further explanation is available here, but that is not the type of flip book we are talking about.
In the crafting and planning world, a flip book is a handmade creation generally using cardstock or some type of heavy weight paper, patterned papers, washi tape or some other type of adhesive. They are constructed with crafting tools, accessories and embellishments. Flip books can contain hidden notes, letters and goodies in pockets, behind tip-ins and additional flips throughout.
Most flip books have a minimum of three panels that fold somewhat like a traditional tri-fold brochure, but flip books can be more elaborate and include as many folds, flips and pockets as the creator likes. Flips are additional pages or pockets that fold in and out, in left and right, or up and down. Flip books can be any size but are generally small and thin so that they can be sent inexpensively via snail mail. In addition to cardstock and patterned paper, envelopes, blank or printed greeting cards, or file folders can be used to construct flip books. There are endless possibilities and flip book design options are limitless.
What is the Purpose of Flip Books?
Flip books are a creative way to communicate with pen pals, friends or to participate in swaps, and they can also be used as a RAK (random act of kindness). They are an alternative to writing letters and a creative way to share not only hand written notes or letters, but also a fun way to get to know fellow crafters or planners. By sharing bits about yourself as well as your crafting or planning stash, they are a creative outlet and are a fun way to connect.
What is in a Flip Book?
Along with pretty patterned papers and the washi tape used to for basic construction, flip books have sections that are typically labeled and are listed and explained below:
- A Currently section is where you list some of your current activities. For example, you could include what you are currently ready, or binge watching on Netflix, or what you are watching on TV.
- An About section is where you might include a little note or project life card and write a bit about yourself. How much you write or reveal is all up to you. Writing about your crafting or planning habits, likes and dislikes is one option, and as with everything about flip books, it’s all up to you.
- You might also choose to include a Mail Tag which is where you ask a question of the recipient that they can answer in their return communication. You can write the question on a Project Life card on note paper and add it to the flip book
- Then probably the most fun part of a flip book is the Goodies section. This section is usually a pocket that is filled with little goodies like stickers, ribbons, washi tape samples, sticky notes, tea bags, candies and any manner of things for the recipient.
There are many more things you can add to a flip book. Flip books can also be converted for use as a mini album style folio and be used as a photo album. Flip books are a quick and easy way to be creative and to communicate and share.
Have you made a flip book? Will you be making a flip book? Share it with me on Instagram by using #scrapcraftastic or @scrapcraftastic.
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