40+ Book Crafts, Books Décor, Bookish Craft DIY Ideas

By Zachary Kai

| Updated:

Easy Crafts Using Books

Not everyone is a master artisan, but we’ve got to start somewhere! These easy crafts are perfect for anyone who wants to dip into the world of book crafts without feeling overwhelmed.

  • Altered book page art.
  • Bookmarks.
  • Book page bouquets.
  • Photo frames.

1. Page Art

Transform those beautiful words into visual masterpieces with page art. All you need is a book page, a design or stencil, and some ink or paint. Trace your design onto the page and watch as your favorite quotes come to life in a whole new way. For a tutorial to help you get started, see this link, or this roundup post of ideas.

Pro tip: try layering multiple pages or using different colors for added depth and dimension.

2. A Bookmark: something To keep your place

Why settle for a generic bookmark when you can create a masterpiece to keep your place in style? Here’s a simple example to spark your imagination. It’d be fun for kids too.

Variation: back your creation on sturdy recycled card for added durability, or add a tassel for a touch of elegance.

3. Bouquets: Myriad ways To Customize

Who says you can’t mix books and botany? Create a bouquet that’ll never wilt and make your fellow bookworms green with envy. Follow this tutorial for step-by-step instructions.

Tip: mix in colored paper for a pop of vibrancy.

4. Photo Frames: designs Galore!

Capture the magic of literature and immortalize your memories by crafting one-of-a-kind photo frames. For inspiration and a tutorial, visit this link.

Variation: use multiple pages to create a collage-style frame, or add embellishments like buttons or ribbons.

5. A Miniature Necklace Or Pendant

Why wear your heart on your sleeve when you can wear your favorite book around your neck? Create a tiny tome that’ll turn heads and start conversations. Check out this tutorial to get started.

Tip: personalize your necklace by writing quotes from your favorite novel on it.

6. A Box

Looking for a novel way to store your treasures? Craft a charming book box that’s as functional as it is conversation-worthy. For a step-by-step guide on how to make these things, look at this tutorial.

Variation: create various sizes of boxes for a nesting effect, or add dividers for organization.

7. Paper Decorations

Unleash your creativity and transform old book pages into an array of delightful decorations that’ll add a literary touch to any space with something like these ideas:

  • Feathers
  • Hearts
  • Lucky clovers
  • Stars
  • Leaves
  • A garland
  • Flowers
  • Pinwheels

Pro tip: mix and match different types of decorations for a stunning, eclectic display.

Intermediate Crafts

Feeling more confident in your book crafting abilities? It’s time to level up!

8. A Multimedia Journal

Why settle for a regular journal when you can create a multimedia masterpiece? Combine book pages with materials like fabric, paint, and photos to create a customized journal.

Tip: Use pages from a variety of books or sheet music for an eclectic look. There are many ways to make it yours.

9. A Wreath

Welcome guests into your home with a stunning wreath made from book pages. With a little patience, you can create a piece of wall art that’s a testament to your love for literature. Discover how to create a literary wreath with this step-by-step guide.

Variation: Add seasonal decorations or switch out the color scheme to match your home’s décor.

10. A Charging Station

Tired of tangled cords and messy charging areas? Craft a clever charging station from an old book to keep your devices organized and your space clutter-free. Learn how to create one with this tutorial.

Tip: Customize the size and design of your charging station to accommodate multiple devices.

11. A Paper Vase

Add a literary touch to your flower arrangements. This project combines the beauty of books with the elegance of a vase, creating a unique centerpiece sure to impress. Get inspired by this paper vase tutorial.

Variation: Experiment with different shapes and sizes to create a collection of paper vases.

12. Colorful Greeting Cards

Ditch store-bought cards and create personalized, bookish greeting cards for your friends and family. Incorporate book pages, illustrations, and quotes to craft memorable cards for any occasion. Spark your creativity with this bookish greeting card example.

Pro tip: Mix and match materials like ribbon, washi tape, and stickers for added flair.

13. Aged Pages

Give your crafts an antique feel with aged pages. This technique can be applied to a variety of projects, adding a touch of vintage charm to your creations. Master the art of aging pages with this step-by-step guide.

Tip: Experiment with different types of tea or coffee to achieve varying shades of aged paper.

14. An Envelope

Make your snail mail stand out with custom book page envelopes. These unique envelopes add a touch of whimsy to your correspondence and are sure to make the recipient feel extra special. Learn how to create book page envelopes with this tutorial.

Variation: Add a coordinating book page liner for an extra dose of bookish charm.

15. Candle Holders

Illuminate your space with the warm glow of candlelight, accentuated by beautiful book page candle holders. These delicate creations add a touch of romance and sophistication to any room. Illuminate your crafting skills with this candle holder tutorial.

Variation: Incorporate colored or patterned paper for added visual interest.

16. Treat Bags

Add a literary twist to your next party or event with book page treat bags. These charming little bags are perfect for party favors or small gifts, and they’ll delight your guests. Craft a book page treat bag with this helpful tutorial.

Tip: Customize the bags with decorations matching your event’s theme.

17. A Mail Holder

Organize your incoming mail with a stylish and functional book page mail holder. This practical craft not only helps keep your space tidy but also adds literary flair to your home. Follow this step-by-step guide.

Variation: Create multiple mail holders with different book themes to sort mail by category.

Advanced Crafts: Are You Up for the Challenge?

Take your bookish creativity to the next level. These require skill, but you’ll be amazed at what you’ll accomplish.

18. A Book Wall

Why limit your love for books to the shelves? Transform a plain wall into a stunning book-themed focal point in your home. A book wall is an eye-catching way to display your favorite covers and add a touch of literary elegance to any room. Follow this tutorial to create a book wall.

Tip: Mix and match different genres and cover designs for a visually striking display.

19. A Planter

Merge your passions for literature and gardening. This DIY project turns old books into beautiful, functional planters to add greenery to your home. Check out this guide to create a book planter.

Variation: Use different sized books to create a tiered arrangement for an eye-catching centerpiece.

20. A Hanging Bookshelf

Show off your favorite reads with a hanging bookshelf. This unique craft is both functional and visually appealing, making it an excellent addition to any book lover’s home. Look at this tutorial for step-by-step instructions.

Tip: Use different colored paints to customize the piece to match your room’s décor.

21. A Birdhouse

Bring your literary passion outdoors with a charming book-themed birdhouse. This delightful craft will add whimsy to your cozy home. Follow this guide to create one.

Variation: Paint your birdhouse with quotes or illustrations from your favorite book to personalize it even further.

22. A Lamp

Illuminate your love for books with a unique book lamp. This stunning craft combines form and function, making it a perfect addition to any bookworm’s home. For instructions on creating a book lamp, check out this tutorial.

Tip: Use a book with a visually striking cover or spine for an extra pop of color.

23. A Headboard

Dream of your favorite stories while resting your head on a one-of-a-kind book headboard. This ambitious project will transform your bedroom into a literary oasis. Follow this guide to create a book headboard.

Variation: Arrange the books by color or theme to customize the look.

24. An Upcycled Purse

Make a statement with a stylish and practical upcycled book purse. This chic accessory is the perfect way to carry your love for literature. Check out this guide to create a book purse.

Variation: Use colorful fabric with handwritten book quotes to line the inside of your purse.

25. Invisible Bookends

Keep your books standing tall with a touch of magic. Invisible bookends create the illusion your books are standing on their own, adding a whimsical touch to your bookshelf. Follow this tutorial to create them.

Tip: Use clear acrylic for an even more “invisible” effect.

26. A Hanging Paper Fern

Add greenery to your space without the need for a green thumb. A hanging paper fern is an exquisite way to bring the outdoors in and showcase your love for books. This delicate craft is both eye-catching and low maintenance, making it a fantastic addition to your home décor. Follow this guide to create a hanging paper fern.

Variation: Experiment with different shapes and sizes of leaves for a more diverse and visually appealing fern.

Other Ingenious Book Craft Ideas

Let’s not stop there! Here are more ideas to put your unique spin on.

  • A lampshade: shed light on your literary passion.
  • Coasters: safeguard your tabletops and flaunt your literary style.
  • A clock: watch time fly as you enjoy its creation.
  • Earrings: a fashion statement for the true bibliophile.
  • A bracelet: a stylish accessory crafted from your favorite pages.
  • Cards: create thoughtful, handmade greetings for loved ones.
  • Origami: fold your way into intricate paper designs like letters using book pages.
  • Wallets: Carry your love for books with you everywhere you go.
  • Kites: Let your love for books soar.
  • Snowflakes: Create delicate, unique decorations with a literary twist.
  • DIY eReader cover: Infuse your digital reading sessions with classic charm.
  • A hedgehog: Isn’t this a lovely idea?

Want more? See our Pinterest Board full of them!

About The Author: Leo Flynn

Hi! I run Road Less Read, curating my scifi, fantasy + YA favorites from reading 100+ books a year!

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