WOW! I can’t believe it’s been 2 years since I recorded this video.
How it started…
I wanted to be able reuse my laminated dashboards instead of having to waste laminate and scrapbook papers each time I wanted a new look in my traveler’s notebook.
I tried a few different methods, one with a clear product bag and one with clear acetate or Duralar.
The clear product bag makes a light weight more pliable pocket while the acetate produces a sturdy pocket very similar to the all laminate version.
I continue to use both the product bags and acetate as options from time to time, but the convenience of not needing any additional supplies is what drove me to find a way to make a reusable dashboard even if you don’t have any extra supplies on hand.
The Laminate Theory
I had an idea that with only laminate pouches, I should be able to achieve the same result as with the duralar or the clear product bag.
My theory was by flipping the inside pieces I wanted to act as pockets inside out, with the shiny sides together, laminating those pieces would create pockets.,
The Step By Step Process
Laminate only sticks on one side (the inside of the pouch). With that truth in mind, my theory or process was as follows:
- Trim four single pieces of laminate to the insert size or pocket size desired.
- Divide the single pieces into two sets of two.
- Put each set together with shiny sides of laminate facing each other. (This is the part of the laminate will not stick together and will create the pocket.)
- Laminate the pocket sets about 1/2″ apart to allow for your spine. (Spine width allowance can be adjusted to meet your needs)
- Trim the top seal of the laminated pockets to open pockets.
- Trim excess laminate from remaining three sides, but be careful not to break the laminate seal.
- Slide scrapbook papers, stickers, vellum or any other items you would like in your new reusable traveler’s notebook dashbaord.
DIY Traveler’s Notebook Setup Series: Create a Reusable Laminated Dashboard
In this video you see how I test my theory, and break down, and demonstrate the process.
The videos below are also options for creating reusable dashboards for your traveler’s notebook.
Create a Reusable Laminated Dashboard w/ Cellophane Bags
Create a Reusable Laminated Dashboard with DURA-LAR (acetate alternative)
