Proving practically anything can be upcycled and repurposed, books can be transformed into furniture, gifts, decor and useful household items. How many would imagine a stack of old books serving a second life as a nightstand or a lamp?
Of course, damaging or disassembling books might seem blasphemous to many book lovers, but the truth is books can become damaged and many aren’t constructed to last into the next century. While many old books can be donated to schools, libraries and hospitals, but this isn’t always an option.
To others, books are just objects that can be upcycled like any other old junk. Books can be especially useful materials for paper crafts for obvious reasons, and they make unique home decor for bookworms who want to showcase their passion. There are so many great ideas to upcycle books, a skilled craftsperson easily could launch a small business selling their repurposed literary creations.
How Do You Upcycle a Book?
How do you upcycle a book? There’s no simple answer to that question since the process depends entirely on how the book is being repurposed. Most books, however, can be upcycled with very basic tools and crafting materials like scissors or a box cutter, glue, paint and twine. Other book upcycling projects might involve more materials such as a clock-making kit or lighting kit.
15 Great Ideas for Book Lovers to Upcycle Old Books
Need a great idea for upcycling old books? Are you looking for the perfect gift for your favorite book lover, unique home design to match your office or library, or perhaps you’re hoping to upcycle enough books to start a small business?
Regardless when they were originally published or in what condition they remain, practically any old book can be upcycled into gifts, decor or household goods. Check out the following 15 creative ways to use old books and upcycled book projects ideas:
1. Upcycle Vinage Books Into Home Decor
2. Create a Storybook Photo album
3. Craft a Decorative Bunting from Book Pages
4. Design Charms for Book Lovers
5. Upcycle Old Book Covers
6. Craft a Repurposed Jewelry Box
7. Turn a Few Pages Into a Floral Bouquet
8. Upcycle Books Into a Lamp
9. Repurpose an Old Book as a Clock
10. Store Valuables in an Old Book Turned Safe
11. Upcycle Comic Books Into Coasters
12. Use an Old Book as a Planter
13. Turn Old Book Covers Into Bookmarks
14. Frame Book Pages as Wall Art
15. Decorate with Book Page Wreaths
How to Sell Your Upcycled Books
Upcycling books is a fun and creative craft that can be used to turn a profit. So, you probably want to know where to sell handmade items locally or online. With a few upcycled and repurposed books under your belt, you can sell your creations on your own website or an online marketplace. It is a great idea to learn how to sell on Etsy and while you are it also how to sell on Amazon Handmade.
Upcycled books also can be sold locally at flea markets, craft shops and other places like crafts fairs and festivals. All you need to start is your own collection of old books, some crafting supplies and a creative eye. You can then look into how to start an upcycling business, the next thing you know, you’ll be making plenty of money from upcycling a pile of books.
Image: Depositphotos
This article, "Upcycling Books for Fun and Profit" was first published on Small Business Trends