Starting with a plain notebook (either lined or blank pages) write a time frame on the top of each page. The time frame should be split up either by stages or years. For example, one page could be titled "Ancient History" or "1960 to 1970." Glue images that relate to that particular period all over the page. For larger projects, use two facing pages and fill one with pictures and one with written information explaining the pictures you chose.
A banner makes a successful timeline because you see the changes as they occur all laid out right in front of you. Draw a straight line across the bottom of a long piece of paper and use small hatch marks coming up from it to indicate a different times or points in history. Write the date below the hatch mark and include information about why that particular time is important in history. You can include images all over the banner, making sure to keep them as close to their place on the timeline as possible.
Creating a timeline tree will be similar to the banner project. Draw a simple tree with multiple branches. Begin at the bottom of the tree, making the trunk the first point of your timeline. Working up from the trunk, make each branch of the tree a different point. Depending on how much history you intend to include, spread the branches out an appropriate distance to make room for the pertinent information.
Once you know the format you wish to use for your timeline, you can focus it on one particular thing and carry the theme throughout. Options include clothing, tools, technology, language and discoveries or inventions. You can format the timeline anyway you like. A blank history book works well for this project, or you can create a banner.