As the co-founder of the literacy organization Success Won’t Wait, I can honestly say I’ve never met a book I didn’t like! With donations received numbering well over one million since 2002… that’s a lot of books.
For me, there’s something magical about the feel and smell of a book. And an old book? I love the yellowed pages, the gently worn covers, and the stories just waiting inside.
While we appreciate all of our donations, sometimes a book is just too damaged for us to place in one of our literacy programs. So, if a book is too far gone, we sometimes will need to recycle. But with a little creativity, we also breathe new life into some of those forgotten books by turning them into beautiful, functional, and whimsical crafts.
Since you probably don’t have access to this kind of volume of books, if you want to try your hand at book crafts, thrifting is your best bet. Thrift stores are simply a goldmine for materials for upcycled book projects.
Here are our favorite, creative ways to transform secondhand books into stunning works of art and useful decor:
Book Page Wreath
A book page wreath is a timeless craft that adds a vintage feel to any room, but is especially charming in a library or reading nook. Simply roll or fold pages into cones or petals and glue them in circular layers onto a cardboard backing. Finish with a ribbon or bow for a cozy, “literary” touch. (Here’s a super easy to follow video.)
Folded Book Art
By carefully folding pages in a specific pattern, you can create stunning 3D designs like hearts, words, or (if you are clever) initials. (Do you remember doing this with old Reader’s Digest Condensed Books in elementary school, too?).
Book Planters
Hollow out the center of a hardcover book. Use an utility knife, a few pages at a time. This takes a while, so you’ll have to be patient. Line the opening with a small, plastic container to create the illusion of a small planter for succulents. It’s a wonderfully unexpected way to display your green thumb!
Literary Bunting
Cut pages into shapes like hearts, circles, pennants, or stars and string them together to create a whimsical garland. Perfect for parties or seasonal décor. You can also run individual pages through a printer to add an image on top of the original text for extra dimension, color, and interest.
Book Spine Bookmarks
Don’t let those beautiful book spines go to waste. Remove and laminate the spine of a book to turn it into a durable, one-of-a-kind bookmark. Punch a hole add the top and add a tassel for extra flair.
Junk Journals
Turn an old book into a mixed media journal or junk journal. The sky is the limit here. Paint over the pages, glue in photos, add doodles, poetry, or collage elements. This is a completely personal and oh-so-creative way to upcycle damaged books.
Book Page Coasters
Adhere book page snippets to ceramic tiles and seal with ModPodge. After ModPodge is dry, lightly sand the edges to finish. Add a waterproof sealant after the ModPodge, and don’t forget cork or felt feet on the bottom of the tiles to protect wood and glass surfaces.
DIY Envelopes and Gift Wrap
Book pages can be turned into one-of-a-kind envelopes or gift wrap (but you’ll have to do the sniff test first to make sure the book absolutely doesn’t smell musty!). Use large pages (atlases and encyclopedias work well) for wrapping small gifts. Fold pages into cute gift envelopes to hold gift cards.
Tips for Book Thrifting and Book Crafts
Choose Wisely: Look for books with sturdy covers and pages that aren’t brittle. Even heavily worn books can have useful bits, but absolutely DO NOT pick up moldy or water-damaged ones.
Search for Variety: Look for different fonts, languages, and page sizes for interesting combinations (especially if you are framing illustrations).
Repurpose, Don’t Ruin: Reserve pristine or rare books for reading or donation. Focus on books that are too damaged to be enjoyed traditionally.
Use the Whole Book: Don’t throw away any part—covers, spines, and pages can all be used for different projects.
Stock Up During Sales: Thrift stores and “Friends of the Public Library” groups regularly have affordable “fill-a-bag” or clearance deals. Garage, tag, and estate sales often have boxes of books for a mere quarter a piece!
Thrifted books offer so much more than just stories — they’re full of whimsical crafting potential. Whether you’re decorating your home, making handmade gifts, or simply expressing your artistic side, upcycled book crafts are a sustainable, affordable, and meaningful way to give old pages new life.
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