Folded Paper Strap - Belly Band - Journal Closure: Hedi Kyle Belt Fold

Hedi Kyle is a book artist who has created some iconic folded book styles. Today I am going to show how to make a folded paper belt using a Hedi Kyle fold technique. It can then be used as a closure for an art or junk journal, a wrap for a box or other present, and a belly band in a variety of mixed media pages.

All you need is paper but a bit of patience helps. The first couple of times you try this it may be frustrating but keep at it and be sure and pause the video as many times as you need to get each step down then move onto the next one. You will get there!

Actual folding begins at the 11:05 mark.

Altered board book online masterclass. Everything you need to know to make an altered board book!

My online illustrated journal class is here:

My other online courses are here:

To see printable scans of vintage paper ephemera from my private collection, they are here on Etsy:

If you are interested in buying original paper and vintage ephemera bundles full of cards, paper, handwritten pieces, lace, and more I sell them here:

If you want free printable wildflower pages they are on my website here:

Finally, here is the link to PB Krieg's tutorial video showing how to fold the Hedi Kyle belt:

[BookandPaperArts]

Altered board book online masterclass. Everything you need to know to make an altered board book!

My online illustrated journal class is here:

[bronxa]

At around 25:50, you discuss making it stay tight. I found if you fold the end back over the buckle and trim it, you can tuck it into the buckle again on the other side, from the top, which kind of locks it. I was using the upside down version, with the square buckle, but think it would work right side up, too. Not sure if I explained that very well.

[yellowsunnybear]

Awesome instructions! I will definitely be making one of these. A tip on having a sense of humor when trying to make Hedi Kyle projects - find a child/teen that loves art and do it together! My niece has helped me enjoy such challenges!

[suzyallen]

This is the most interesting video. I love how you told us to have a sense of humor and it took you several tries. Very good instruction. I love how you did it several times. I'll have to try this when I'm relaxed but I love it

[whtwasithinking]

I love this paper belt. Thanks for the reminder as I have not made one in a while. The hardest part of this belt for me is getting that last little triangle into the pocket. You make it look so easy.

[sandybe]

This is so cool and unique, Kelly. Love this as a journal closure. The book page one and the plain paper could be decorated so many ways, stamping, watercolor, stencil. Thanks for sharing!

[diane]

I've never seen this before. Going to give it a try! Thanks for the instructions.

[roksannastephens]

Fun band, thanks for sharing. Love the feather tucked in, too.

[NolaTheAlamoChiliQueen]

I love the belt! You always do such a great job of everything.
Can’t wait to see your future vids on the folded journals.

[LosPeregrinos]

Excellent! Entertaining my 11 yo great-niece on a Saturday. This morning it was letter locking like the Elizabethans, this afternoon Belly Bands and Blizzard Books,
We each managed the band on the first try although one was more . . . elegant than the other!
Is that a Canadian accent I hear? You sound very much like a friend in BC.
Happy folding!

[jo]

Thank you!!!!  
loved this. I followed along and was able to do it. Great instruction. Also, did you collage or purchase that gorgeous blue background paper at around 17:36????

[cindycoven]

Back in the day we folded notes like this😂and gum wrappers partially. That was so we could make long chains.

[gaellegrassin]

Thanks ! J'ai réussi la première fois... J'aime, mais je dois m'exercer... Kisses from France

[barrylytle]

Interesting....I'm not good with folding...lol. But will give this a try.

[ladyflimflam]

What book are the wildflower illustration’s from?

[a.]

Terrible verbal instructions if your sight is impaired.