DIY Notebook Cover Decoration: Using Stickers, Washi Tape, and Enamel Pins
By Bellzi | Published: 2026-08-31
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to decorate your notebook cover with stickers, washi tape, and enamel pins. Get step-by-step tips for a custom, cute look that shows off your style.
Quick Answer
To decorate a notebook cover, start by cleaning the surface, then layer washi tape for a base, add stickers for focal points, and finish with an enamel pin as a removable accent. This combo gives you a custom look that’s easy to change when you want a fresh style.
A plain notebook is a blank canvas for your personality. Whether you use it for journaling, school notes, or bullet journaling, decorating the cover makes it uniquely yours. The best part? You don’t need artistic skills—just a few supplies and a bit of planning.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a simple method using washi tape, stickers, and enamel pins. These materials are forgiving, removable (mostly), and let you update your design whenever the mood strikes. Let’s get started.
Why Combine Stickers, Washi Tape, and Enamel Pins?
Each material brings something different to your notebook. Washi tape is great for creating borders, stripes, or a full background because it’s translucent and easy to tear. Stickers add instant artwork—choose your favorite characters or patterns to make a statement. Enamel pins are the wildcard: they’re three-dimensional and can be swapped out without damaging the cover.
Using all three together lets you build a layered, textured design. For example, you might use washi tape to frame the edges, place a large sticker in the center, and then pin a small enamel pin on the corner for a pop of color. The result is a cover that looks intentional and polished.
- Washi tape is repositionable, so you can adjust it before it’s fully pressed down.
- Stickers with a matte finish tend to blend better with paper covers.
- Enamel pins work best on notebooks with a sturdy cover that won’t bend easily.
Choosing the Right Materials for Your Notebook
Not all notebooks are the same. A hardcover notebook can handle enamel pins without issue, but a softcover might warp or tear. If you’re using a softcover, consider placing a piece of cardboard or a thick book inside when pinning to provide support.
For washi tape, look for tapes that are not too sticky—you want to be able to peel them off without leaving residue. Decorative tapes from stationery brands often have a gentle adhesive. Stickers come in endless designs; choose ones that match your theme, whether it’s animals, plants, or abstract shapes.
- Test a small piece of washi tape on a corner first to ensure it doesn’t damage the cover.
- If your notebook has a textured cover, smooth it out with a ruler before applying stickers.
Step-by-Step Decoration Process
- Clean the cover: Wipe the notebook cover with a soft cloth to remove dust and oils. This helps stickers and tape adhere better. Checkpoint: The cover should feel smooth and dry before you start.
- Plan your layout: Lay out your washi tape, stickers, and pins on the cover without sticking them. Arrange them until you’re happy with the composition. Checkpoint: Take a photo of the layout so you can replicate it after sticking.
- Apply washi tape: Tear strips of washi tape and place them along edges or as borders. Press down firmly, but leave a little slack if you think you might want to move them later. Common mistake: Applying tape over stickers first can cause bubbles. Tape first, then stick.
- Add stickers: Peel and place your stickers on top of the tape or on bare areas. Use a flat object like a credit card to smooth out any air bubbles. Checkpoint: Make sure stickers are fully adhered at the edges to prevent peeling.
- Attach enamel pins: Push the pin through the cover from the front, and secure the backing on the inside. For soft covers, place a book inside for support. Common mistake: Pinning too close to the edge can cause the cover to bend. Keep pins at least an inch from edges.
- Final review and adjust: Step back and look at your design. If something is off, you can remove washi tape and reposition stickers, but enamel pins are harder to move—so make sure they’re placed where you want them. Checkpoint: Your notebook should feel balanced and visually appealing.
Product Facts to Consider
- Snaki Frankenstein Enamel Pin: Meet Snaki Frankenstein – the cute yet spooky snake that’s here to slither its way into your heart! With a playful green color, a bolt in its head, stitches along its body and tail, and a pink tongue sticking out, this enamel pin blends Halloween fun with adorable charm. This pin adds a whimsical touch to your notebook cover and can be swapped out for another pin whenever you want a new look.
- 3D Greeting Card - First Bellzi: This charming card brings a playful pop-up surprise to your message, making it a delightful way to say hello or mark a first occasion. Crafted with care, it features Bellzi's beloved original animal character design. While not a sticker or tape, the card’s artwork can inspire your notebook theme, or you can cut out elements to use as decorative accents.
Decorating your notebook cover is a fun, low-cost way to make it your own. With just a few supplies, you can create a design that reflects your style and is easy to update. So grab your favorite stickers, washi tape, and enamel pins, and start crafting!
