You know that feeling when the new year rolls around, and you're faced with a blank wall just begging for some personality? I’ve been dreaming of crafting my own unique wall calendar—something that truly echoes the rhythm of my life, instead of just another store-bought splat. What if I filled each month with photos that spark joy, or little notes that whisper sweet memories? I can almost picture those vibrant visuals brightening up the dull spots in my room. Isn’t it wild how a simple calendar can hold our favorite moments, like that spontaneous road trip with friends last summer or the quiet nights spent with a good book? I remember flipping through the pages of my old calendar, and it just hit me—it’s time to pour my heart into creating something that’s all mine! What would yours look like? What stories do you want to tell?
Items You’ll Need
- Cardstock paper
- Printer (inkjet or laser)
- Binding machine (or spiral binder)
- Binding combs or coils
- Scissors or paper cutter
- Ruler
- Stickers or decorative items
- Hole punch
- Laminator (for lamination)
- Laminating pouches
- Markers or pens for writing
- Calendar template software (e.g., Canva, Adobe InDesign)
- Decorative tape (washi tape)
- Clip or photo holder (optional)
- Display stand (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Gather My Equipment
I start by collecting all the equipment I need: cardstock paper, my printer, the binding machine, binding combs, scissors, a ruler, stickers for decoration, a hole punch, my laminator and pouches, and some colorful markers.
Step 2: Choose a Calendar Template
I fire up my computer and open my favorite calendar template software, like Canva. I browse through the templates until I find one that resonates with the vibe I want for my calendar.
Step 3: Customize the Calendar
Next, I spend some time personalizing the calendar. I add my favorite photos for each month and adjust the colors and fonts to match my style. I really make it my own!
Step 4: Print the Calendar Pages
Once I’m satisfied with the look of my calendar, I load my printer with cardstock paper and print out all the calendar pages. The colors look vibrant and I can't wait to see it all come together!
Step 5: Trim the Edges
Using my scissors and ruler, I carefully trim any excess paper from the edges of each calendar page to ensure they all have a neat, uniform look.
Step 6: Laminating Best Pages
I take the pages that I want to laminate (like the cover and perhaps the most important months) and run them through my laminator, slipping each page into a laminating pouch first.
Step 7: Punch Holes for Binding
With a hole punch, I add holes to the left side of each page so that they can be bound together. I make sure the holes are evenly spaced and aligned.
Step 8: Bind the Pages Together
Now, I use my binding machine to bind the pages with the binding combs or coils, ensuring the pages turn easily but hold together securely.
Step 9: Add Decorations
Time for some fun! I grab the stickers and decorative tape. I embellish each month’s page with fun stickers and colorful washi tape to make my calendar pop.
Step 10: Create a Display Stand (Optional)
If I want to make it easy to display my calendar, I can make or set up a display stand, so it's ready to show off on my wall or desk.
Step 11: Showcase My Creation
Finally, I find a great spot to hang my calendar. I admire my craftsmanship and feel proud of my unique wall calendar creation!