Making a Pretend Checkbook

When they were younger, I used to make pretend checkbooks for my kids. And although children these days may not see us writing checks as much as swiping cards, I believe they still enjoy playing with them. Around 4th grade, most children are taught how to write a check in school. So I thought this would not only make a fun toy for playing “store”, but possibly a great homeschooling tool.

To make a checkbook for your child, click on the image of checks at the bottom of this post for a downloadable PDF file. You can add your kid’s name and customize any part of the art in your own software. Print several sheets of checks onto colored paper or add your own colored background image if you like. (I prefer simply printing black onto colored paper as it saves on ink.)

With a paper cutter, craft knife or scissors, trim out the checks cutting just above the top line of the checks, just below the digital numbers. A paper cutter is great for cutting several at a time. I use this dinosaur of a cutting board that I picked up at the thrift store for a song.

Once all checks are cut, it’s time to perforate. Stacking a few at a time, sew threadless along the dotted line. You may want to keep a needle separate just for sewing paper as it may become too dull for fabric sewing. You can use a marker to add stripes to that needle to remind you which one is for paper only.

Stack together as many perforated checks as you think your stapler can handle. With a piece cut from a manilla folder or cardstock, staple the stack face down to the top edge.Fold the cardstock back over the stack and crease at the perforation line. Then continue to fold the cardstock over to the back of the stack and trim away the excess.Now, let’s go shopping!Yeah, that’s my handwriting using my left hand. Maggie is our black lab : )Click on image above to download the free PDF file.