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On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, these DIY bookish decor crafts are perfect for book lovers to turn their creative flair to turning their home into one big book nook.
Imagine transforming your reading nook into a whimsical haven where books and creativity collide.
From cozy corners filled with your favorite reads to charming little accents scattered throughout your space, DIY bookish decor can breathe new life into any room. Each project is not only a way to showcase your love for literature, but it also adds a personal touch that reflects your unique style. Get ready to gather your supplies, unleash your creativity, and turn everyday materials into stunning decor that will make any book lover swoon. Let’s dive into these delightful crafts that are sure to inspire your inner bookworm!
1. DIY Book Page Art
Turn your old or damaged books into stunning wall art with DIY book page art. It’s simple, fun, and gives every book lover the chance to display their favorite quotes or illustrations on their walls. Just take some pages from a book that you don’t mind parting with and frame them in bold or vintage frames. For an easy way to get started, consider using affordable frames that come in various styles and sizes, making it easy to create an eclectic gallery wall.
Tips for this project include using pages with beautiful illustrations or powerful quotes to really make an impact. You can even create unique shapes, like hearts or stars, from the pages before framing them. For those intricate shapes, a precision craft knife can be invaluable, ensuring clean cuts that highlight the beauty of the pages.
Consider creating a themed wall, such as all quotes from a specific author or illustrations from a favorite genre. This way, it ties your decor together beautifully. Additionally, you can experiment with arranging the frames in different patterns before hammering in any nails. Use painter’s tape to outline where you think each frame should go on the wall, easily allowing you to step back and see how the arrangement looks.
To keep your artwork looking fresh and well-presented, you might want to invest in decorative tape. This can add a little flair to the edges of the pages, making your DIY decor even more unique and visually appealing.
Don’t forget, you can buy affordable frames and even some cute decorative tape if you want to add a little flair to the edges of the pages.
Product Recommendations:
• affordable frames
• precision craft knife
• decorative tape
2. Bookish Candle Holders
Create a cozy ambiance in your reading space with bookish candle holders made from your favorite novels. Simply hollow out a few old paperbacks—preferably those you wouldn’t mind sacrificing—and place small candles or tealights inside. This craft not only repurposes old books but also adds a unique charm to your decor.
For a perfect fit, consider using LED tealights, which provide a safe alternative to traditional candles. They’re especially valuable if you’re concerned about fire hazards, allowing you to enjoy the warm glow without worry.
Choose books with interesting covers or titles that resonate with you. If you’re feeling particularly crafty, you can even customize the candle holders by painting or distressing the books for a more vintage look. To enhance your setup further, think about incorporating decorative candlesticks that complement your style. These not only elevate the aesthetic but also provide a sturdy base for your candles.
Candlesticks or decorative tealights add warmth and an inviting glow, perfect for late-night reading marathons. You can also layer your candle holders on a decorative tray with small plants or fairy lights for added visual interest. For a touch of whimsy, fairy lights can create a magical atmosphere around your candle holders, making your reading nook feel extra special.
Just make sure to use LED candles if you’re concerned about fire hazards—safety first! This craft can be an excellent conversation starter for guests and a unique way to share your literary preferences without saying a word. You’ll love how much personality this simple project brings to your space.
Product Recommendations:
• LED tealights
• decorative candlesticks
• fairy lights
3. Literary Quote Wall Hangings
Every book lover has that one quote that resonates deeply. Why not bring those words to life with literary quote wall hangings? Choose your favorite quotes and print them on canvas or fabric. If you enjoy painting, hand-lettering can add a personal touch to the decor. For those who want to simplify the process, consider using a hand-lettering stencil kit. This kit comes with various fonts and designs, perfect for creating beautiful lettering that enhances your quotes without the stress of freehand writing.
Incorporate beautiful fonts and colors that complement your existing decor. You can even add illustrations or embellishments like watercolor designs around the quote for a more artistic vibe. If you’re looking for a more polished look, consider using a vinyl cutting machine to create lettering that you can apply directly onto a canvas. This machine allows for intricate designs and offers a professional finish that can elevate your wall hangings significantly.
These wall hangings can be made in various sizes, so you can create a single statement piece or an entire collage of quotes. Hang them in your reading nook, entryway, or any spot that could use a little literary inspiration. For those who prefer a quick solution, ready-made quote canvases are available, such as the ones you can find in DIY decor kits. These kits often include curated quotes and designs, saving you time while still allowing you to infuse your personal style.
Use crafting supplies like stencils, brushes, and fabric paint to personalize your project. A high-quality fabric paint set can ensure vibrant colors that stand out, making your quotes truly pop. You can also find ready-made kits with everything you need if you’re short on time. This is a fantastic way to express your love for books and motivate yourself every day.
Product Recommendations:
• hand-lettering stencil kit
• vinyl cutting machine
• high-quality fabric paint set
4. Upcycled Book Planters
Give your indoor plants a stylish new home with upcycled book planters. This eco-friendly craft not only showcases your green thumb but also your love for reading! To create these planters, select a few old books, preferably hardcover ones that can withstand moisture. You’ll want to seal the pages tightly so they don’t become soggy over time. For a reliable sealant, consider using water-resistant sealant, which ensures your planters remain intact and looking fresh even with moisture exposure.
Carefully cut out a section in the middle of the book, deep enough to hold a small plant or pot. You can use sturdy plastic pots or even small glass containers that fit into the hollowed-out spaces. For the best fit, check out mini plant pots, which are perfect for creating a snug environment for your plants while adding a touch of elegance.
Once your plant is snug inside, you can decorate the planter further by adding small decorative rocks, soil, and even tiny fairy figurines for a magical touch. To make this process easier, consider using decorative pebbles that not only enhance the aesthetic but also help with drainage in your new book planter.
These planters can be placed on shelves, window sills, or even as centerpieces on tables. Mix and match different book genres for a whimsical look, or create a themed display with books from your favorite series. Use a water-resistant sealant to protect the book and keep it looking fresh, allowing you to enjoy your DIY decor for years to come.
Product Recommendations:
• water-resistant sealant
• mini plant pots
• decorative pebbles
5. Book Spine Bookmarks
Looking for a way to combine practicality with your love for books? Book spine bookmarks are the perfect solution! These crafts are not only easy to make but also allow you to use up old book spines that might otherwise go to waste. Simply cut the spines off of old, damaged books and attach a sturdy ribbon to the top. For a quick and reliable option, consider using high-quality decorative ribbons that come in various colors and patterns, making your bookmarks uniquely yours.
You can even customize your bookmarks by adding embellishments like beads, tassels, or charms that reflect your personal style. A great set of crafting beads could enhance your bookmarks beautifully, allowing you to create designs that truly represent your personality. These bookmarks are not only functional but also a great conversation piece every time you pull one out while reading.
Consider gifting these handmade bookmarks to fellow book lovers or hosting a craft night where friends can create their own. For a fun, group-friendly experience, you might want to grab a crafting toolkit that includes everything from scissors to glue, ensuring that everyone has the supplies they need to unleash their creativity. They’re a great way to keep your place in a book and make reading even more enjoyable. Plus, with their compact size, they can easily fit into any book or journal.
To take it a step further, you can also create themed bookmarks for different genres or series, allowing you to switch them out based on your current read. If you want to ensure your bookmarks stand out, try using laminating sheets to give them a professional finish that protects against wear and tear.
Product Recommendations:
• high-quality decorative ribbons
• crafting beads
• crafting toolkit
6. Bookish Wall Shelves
Transform any wall into a captivating display with bookish wall shelves made from reclaimed wood or even old ladders. Using simple brackets, such as heavy-duty shelf brackets, you can create diagonal or staggered shelves that bring character and functionality to your space. These brackets are designed to support significant weight, ensuring your cherished books stay securely in place.
These shelves are perfect for showcasing your beloved books or even your DIY crafts. For a vibrant touch, consider using a high-quality wood paint that allows you to paint them in bold colors or leave them with a rustic finish to bring warmth to the room. Arrange books both horizontally and vertically for visual interest, mixing in decorative pieces like plants or framed photos. A set of decorative bookends can also help keep your collection organized while adding style.
Consider using mismatched shelves for an eclectic, bohemian vibe, or go for a more polished look with uniform shelves. You can even hang string lights along the edges for a magical effect during evening reading sessions. These lights not only create a cozy atmosphere but can also enhance the visual appeal of your book display.
Measure the wall where you plan to install the shelves to ensure you have enough space for your books and decor. For stability, don’t forget to anchor your shelves properly with wall anchors to support the weight of your books! These anchors provide additional security, giving you peace of mind as you enjoy your reading nook.
Product Recommendations:
• heavy-duty shelf brackets
• high-quality wood paint
• decorative bookends
7. Literary Coasters
Protect your surfaces while celebrating your favorite stories with DIY literary coasters. It’s a simple project that can serve as a great conversation starter. Start by cutting pieces of cork or wood into squares, then decorate them with quotes or illustrations from your favorite books. You can decoupage images directly onto the coasters or use paint for a more artistic approach. For an easy and durable finishing touch, consider using a high-quality waterproof sealant. This product not only protects against coffee spills and condensation but also ensures your designs remain vibrant and intact over time.
You can also create sets based on different themes—such as fantasy, mystery, or romance—offering a curated collection that reflects your reading tastes. To make the crafting process even easier, look for crafting kits that include pre-cut coasters and a variety of decorative materials. These kits often come with everything you need, saving you time and ensuring consistent quality across your creations.
These coasters make great gifts for fellow book lovers and are perfect for book club meetings. You can even host a crafting party where everyone can create their own coasters, making it a fun social event. For those who might want a little extra inspiration, consider using a book quote generator to find the perfect phrases to feature on your coasters. This tool can provide you with unique quotes that resonate with fellow readers, enhancing the personal touch of your gifts.
Just remember to let the sealant dry properly before using the coasters to ensure they stand the test of time. With these tips and tools, your literary coasters will not only be functional but also a delightful reflection of your love for books.
Product Recommendations:
• Cork coaster blanks
• Mod Podge decoupage glue
• waterproof sealant spray
8. Book-Themed Wall Clock
Combine functionality with flair by creating a book-themed wall clock that showcases your love for literature. Start with a basic clock mechanism, which you can find here, and a sturdy base, such as a round piece of wood or a cork board. The clock mechanism is crucial as it provides the internal workings to keep time accurately while allowing you the freedom to customize the design.
You can design the clock face using book covers, quotes, or even pages from your favorite novels. For a smooth application, consider using a premium decoupage glue, which ensures that your designs attach securely and remain vibrant over time. This glue is ideal for crafting projects where a strong bond is essential, especially when working with heavier materials like wood.
Don’t forget to add numbers—either by using decorative number stickers that complement your bookish theme or by hand-painting them for a personal touch. These stickers come in various styles, allowing you to match them perfectly to your chosen aesthetic.
Incorporate elements like vintage keys or miniature books as clock hands for a unique twist. If you don’t have these items on hand, you can find charming miniature book replicas that add an extra layer of literary charm to your clock design. These tiny books can serve as a delightful reminder of your favorite stories every time you check the time.
This clock can be a focal point in your reading nook or a charming addition to your home office. Not only will it keep you on track with your reading goals, but it also serves as a beautiful piece of art that reflects your passion for books. To further enhance your reading nook, consider adding a soft reading lamp that creates a cozy atmosphere, making your space even more inviting.
Make sure to let the glue dry completely before hanging your new clock, and choose a spot where it can get noticed and admired by guests!
Product Recommendations:
• Clock mechanism
• decoupage glue
• decorative number stickers
9. Bookish Throw Pillows
Add a cozy touch to your reading space with bookish throw pillows that celebrate your favorite stories and characters. You can create these pillows by using fabric paint or iron-on transfers to apply quotes or images onto plain pillow covers. This craft allows you to express your love for literature while making your space more comfortable!
For a seamless crafting experience, consider using fabric paint sets that come with a variety of colors and applicator tools, making it easy to create detailed designs. These sets often include non-toxic options, ensuring safety while you bring your favorite quotes to life. Choose fabric colors that complement your decor style, and don’t shy away from mixing patterns for a fun look.
If you prefer a more straightforward option, iron-on transfer sheets can be a great solution. They allow you to print your designs at home and easily apply them to your pillow covers, perfect for those who might not be as confident in their painting skills. Consider including quotes that inspire you or references to your favorite novels and genres. You can also add embellishments like tassels or pom-pom trim for an added flair, enhancing your pillows’ visual appeal.
Throw pillows are versatile and can be used not just on your couch or reading chair but also on your bed to create a cozy literary retreat. If you’re crafty, try sewing your pillow covers from scratch using a sewing machine designed for beginners; this can help you add an extra personal touch with ease.
These pillows can also make thoughtful gifts for fellow book lovers, allowing them to add a bit of literary charm to their own spaces. Consider pairing your handmade pillows with a book-themed gift box that includes a few of their favorite titles, creating a delightful surprise that celebrates their love of reading.
Product Recommendations:
• fabric paint sets
• iron-on transfer sheets
• sewing machine for beginners
10. Book-Making Craft Kits
Combine your love of reading with crafting by creating your own books! Book-making craft kits allow you to assemble journals, sketchbooks, or even mini storybooks from scratch. These kits typically include all the necessary materials like papers, covers, and binding supplies, making it easy and fun for anyone to get started. For a well-rounded experience, consider the Deluxe Book-Making Kit, which includes a variety of decorative papers and covers, perfect for adding a personal touch to your creations.
Consider hosting a book-making party where friends can come together to create unique stories or journals. You can provide prompts to inspire creativity or let everyone write freely. To make the process even smoother, you might want to use the Craft Table Organizer. This handy solution keeps all your materials sorted and easily accessible, allowing everyone to focus on their creativity without the clutter.
These crafted books can serve as personal diaries, art journals, or gifts filled with heartfelt notes. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also include pockets, envelopes, or decorative elements to personalize the books even further. A great addition for this is the Ephemera Craft Collection, which provides a selection of vintage-inspired embellishments that can enhance the aesthetic of your projects.
The beauty of this craft lies in its versatility; you can create themed books based on genres, characters, or favorite series. To get inspired, consider using the Creative Writing Prompt Cards. These cards can help jumpstart your imagination and give direction to your book-making endeavors.
Creating your own books can be incredibly rewarding, allowing you to not only appreciate literature but also contribute to the literary world in a unique way. With these products at your disposal, your crafting journey will be both enjoyable and enriching!
Product Recommendations:
• Deluxe Book-Making Kit
• Craft Table Organizer
• Ephemera Craft Collection
11. Bookish Greeting Cards
Bring a smile to fellow book lovers with handmade bookish greeting cards! This delightful craft allows you to create personalized notes for any occasion while celebrating your love for literature. Use old book pages or illustrations from your favorite stories to design unique cards.
Start with blank card stock and glue cut-out images or phrases onto the front. A great option for this is premium blank card stock, which comes in various colors and weights, ensuring your cards are sturdy and visually appealing. You can also use stamps or embellishments to enhance the card’s aesthetic. Consider a set of vintage book-themed stamps that can add a charming touch to your creations and make each card truly one-of-a-kind. Whether it’s for birthdays, thank-yous, or just because, these cards will resonate with any reader.
Consider making a set of cards with different themes, like quotes from classics, modern novels, or even poetry. This not only showcases your creativity but also gives your friends and family a taste of your literary favorites. Plus, crafting cards can be a fun way to express your creativity while keeping your love for books alive.
For added convenience, you might want to use adhesive photo corners for attaching images, making it easy to reposition them until you find the perfect layout. You could even include a small pocket inside the card to tuck in a gift card to a local bookstore, making it a double treat for the recipient. Consider using decorative washi tape to create this pocket; it not only adds a decorative flair but also keeps everything securely in place.
Product Recommendations:
• premium blank card stock
• vintage book-themed stamps
• decorative washi tape
12. Bookish Origami
Unlock your creativity with bookish origami! This craft allows you to fold pages from old books into delicate shapes that serve as decor or unique gifts. Choose simple designs like butterflies or hearts, or challenge yourself with more complex creations. To make your origami experience even smoother, consider using an Origami Paper Pack, which features various colors and sizes specifically designed for folding. This paper is perfect for achieving crisp edges and vibrant designs that will really make your creations stand out.
Origami not only beautifies your space but also gives a second life to old books. You can decorate your reading nook by displaying these folded pieces in jars, or hang them from the ceiling for an enchanting effect. For a more polished look, try using Clear Fishing Line to suspend your origami creations. This virtually invisible line allows your decorations to float in the air, adding a whimsical touch without distracting from the art itself.
Another fun idea is to create an origami mobile, incorporating different shapes and sizes that sway gently with the breeze. This adds a whimsical touch to your environment. Additionally, you can include notes or quotes folded inside some of the origami for an element of surprise. A great tool for this is a Quote Journal, where you can jot down your favorite literary quotes before folding them into your designs. This can be a fun way to share inspirational messages with friends or loved ones.
Hosting an origami night with friends can also be a wonderful bonding experience. For a successful gathering, consider using a Craft Table Cover to protect your surfaces and provide a dedicated workspace. This way, you can test your skills together while exploring your shared love for literature and creativity.
Product Recommendations:
• Origami Paper Pack
• Clear Fishing Line
• Quote Journal
13. Book-Themed Magnets
Spruce up your fridge with charming book-themed magnets that reflect your love for reading. This craft is simple and effective, allowing you to reuse old book covers or pages. Cut out interesting images or quotes from your favorite reads and attach them to magnetic sheets. If you’re looking for magnetic sheets, consider using magnetic sheets for crafting, which provide a strong hold and are easy to cut into any shape you desire.
Once your magnets are ready, you can showcase them on your fridge or any magnetic surface, creating a whimsical display. Consider making a series with various genres or themes, allowing you to switch them out based on your mood. If you want to add some extra flair to your magnets, using decorative craft papers can enhance the visual appeal, giving your creations a unique touch.
This project also makes for a great gift; you could create a personalized set for a friend featuring their favorite authors or book titles. It’s a delightful way to keep your love for literature visible every day. For an even more thoughtful gift, consider including a set of decorative sticker sheets that complement the themes of the magnets, allowing your friend to personalize their own creations.
Experiment with different sizes and shapes for the magnets, and feel free to embellish them with craft supplies like glitter or stickers for added fun. If you’re looking for a reliable adhesive for your embellishments, craft glue is perfect for securing everything in place. This project brings personality to an often-overlooked area of the home.
Product Recommendations:
• magnetic sheets for crafting
• decorative craft papers
• craft glue
14. Bookish Picture Frames
Add a personalized touch to your home with DIY bookish picture frames! Using old books or book covers, you can create beautiful frames that showcase your favorite memories and bookish inspirations. To create these frames, simply cut out the cover of a book, ensuring it’s sturdy enough to hold a photo in place. For a more durable option, consider using clear acrylic sheets, which can provide a sleek finish and protect your photos while giving them a professional look.
You can decorate the frames with embellishments like ribbons or buttons, or even use paint to customize the colors. If you’re looking for a versatile paint option, try multi-surface craft paint, which adheres to various materials and offers vibrant colors to make your frames pop. This project allows you to blend your love for reading with cherished moments, making your decor even more special.
Consider creating themed frames based on your favorite genres or beloved authors—this could include quotes or illustrations that resonate with you. To add a truly personal touch, use customizable stamp sets that allow you to imprint your favorite quotes or designs directly onto your frames. These frames are fantastic for displaying photos of book club gatherings, literary events, or even snapshots of your favorite reads.
Crafting together with friends can also be a fun way to bring everyone’s unique style into the project, showcasing different tastes and preferences. To make the crafting process smoother, you might want to invest in a precision cutting tool, which can help you achieve clean, intricate cuts in your book covers or embellishments. This is a unique way to blend your passions and create meaningful decor for your space.
Product Recommendations:
• clear acrylic sheets
• multi-surface craft paint
• customizable stamp sets
15. Bookish Garden Signs
Bring a touch of whimsy to your garden with bookish garden signs! These charming signs can be made from reclaimed wood or even painted stones, adorned with quotes or character names from your favorite novels. To make the painting process easier and more enjoyable, consider using a paint marker set that offers precision and a variety of colors, making it simple to create vibrant, readable quotes. This project not only adds personality to your garden but also reflects your love for literature in a creative way.
Begin by sketching out designs for your signs using either stencils or freehand painting. If you’re looking for quality materials, a stencil kit can help you achieve clean, professional-looking letters and designs. Make sure the quotes are easily readable, using contrasting colors for better visibility. Once painted, seal your signs with a protective coating to ensure they withstand all weather conditions. A reliable weatherproof sealant will protect your artwork from the elements, keeping your garden looking charming all year round.
You can place these signs around your garden to create a themed literary space, or even gift them to fellow book lovers with gardens of their own. Imagine how delightful it would be to walk through your garden and see quotes from your favorite stories come to life among the flowers.
This project is also perfect for families, allowing kids to get involved by helping with painting or planting. Engaging children in this creative process can be made easier with a craft supply organizer, ensuring that all your materials are neatly stored and easily accessible. It’s a wonderful way to combine gardening and storytelling, sparking creativity and imagination.
Product Recommendations:
• paint marker set
• stencil kit
• weatherproof sealant
Conclusion
Crafting bookish DIY decor is not just about the end result; it’s about the stories and memories woven into each piece you create. These projects invite you to put your personality into your space, making every corner a reflection of your love for literature.
Whether you’re displaying your favorite quotes or combining crafting with gardening, the possibilities are endless. So gather your materials, unleash your creativity, and let your imagination run wild in your bookish sanctuary!
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