How to Make a Matchbook
No Need for a Printable Template
Called a matchbook because it's folded like a book of matches, this minibook is just a few folds away.
Generally a small book, it is perfect for vocabulary words or other snippets of information.
Make several and arrange them in a group inside your lapbook.
Directions for Making the Matchbook Miniboks
Matchbooks work well with any type of paper from regular copy paper to cardstock. So grab a sheet and fold along with the directions!
Using a sheet of paper, lightly mark a vertical line about one inch (2.5 cm) from the edge.
Fold the opposite edge to that lightly drawn line.
Then fold the one inch edge back over. This forms the lip of the matchbook.
Cut the matchbooks into the desired width.
Ususally a regular sheet of paper can make four matchbooks. But experiment with different widths for even more variety!
Here is the finished matchbook. The lip at the bottom makes a great place to write the book's title. But there are no fast rules. Be creative in how you use your matchbooks.
Bookmaking Bonanza
Matchbook Variations
Change the orientation -- try a sideways matchbook:
Cut a wide matchbook down the center for a split matchbook:
Nest small matchbooks inside a larger matchbook.
How to Make A Matchbook - From Live & Learn
How to Make a Matchbook from Paint Chip Samples
Matchbook Poll
Cards that Pop Up, Flip & Slide
Matchbook Guestbook
RoadMonkey on August 25, 2019:
I never knew about these before. Nice way for younger kids to start out.
anonymous on August 06, 2012:
Another thing you can use for these is old greeting cards. The inside of the front cover is usually blank and you can use the front of a nice card someone gave you for a birthday or other special occasion. It's a good way to teach recycling too! :-D
sushilkin lm on September 12, 2011:
Nice Lens, Thanks for sharing. Keep it up.
Tarra99 on April 29, 2009:
Cool little craft...I've seen altered artists do these with a vintage slant to it...never knew how they did it though...thanks for the great tutorial! 5*
Andy-Po on January 20, 2009:
This looks great. My nieces will enjoy doing this (so will I).
groovyoldlady on October 27, 2008:
Since my girlies are still too young to give me full fledged reports, these would be an EXCELLENT way for them to distill what they've learned into one or two sentences.
I love it!