Got a stack of old books gathering dust? Before they head to recycling, put them to work! These fun book crafts for kids turn well-loved (or well-worn) pages into pretty, playful projects — perfect for a rainy afternoon, a book-themed party, or just using up books nobody’s going to read again.
Here are four of our favourite book craft ideas to try together.
#1. Make Heart Strings
This lovely project from Dottieangel uses hearts cut from the pages of an old book to make a set of pretty hanging strings.
As well as the book, you’ll need scissors, sewing thread, wrapping paper and tape. The instructions on the blog are clear and easy to follow, so this is a great one to try with younger kids alongside an adult doing the cutting.
#2. Create Bookmarks and Tags
We love this idea from Vakuoli, who rescues old books and dictionaries from recycling and turns them into bookmarks and gift tags.
Cut a template or two out of cardboard, then use them to trace and cut shapes from the old book pages. You can make different sizes for bookmarks or gift tags — a lovely way to give a tired old book a whole new life.
#3. Make Paper Pinwheels
This is a nice project from Better Homes & Gardens: Paper Pinwheels made from book pages. They’re a sweet topper for cupcakes at a book-themed party, or just fun to make and display.
You’ll need an old book, some pins, a pair of pliers, and sticks to mount your finished pinwheels on.
#4. Make Google-Eyed Bookmarks
Try our own MyKidsTime project: Google-Eyed Bookmarks!
You’ll need coloured card or construction paper, scissors, a ruler, glue, and a pen and pencil. Craft googly eyes work well too, but we love letting each child draw their own eyes so every bookmark turns out completely individual.
Have you tried any of these book-y projects? Tell us how you got on in the comments below.
FAQs About Book Crafts for Kids
What can I make from an old book?
Old books can become heart garlands, bookmarks, gift tags, paper pinwheels, and more. They’re great for upcycling books that are too worn or outdated to keep on the shelf.
What age are these book crafts suitable for?
Most of these projects work well for school-age children with adult help for cutting and pinning. Younger children can help with tearing, gluing, and decorating.
Do I need special craft tools for these projects?
No — most of these crafts use basic supplies you’ll already have at home, such as scissors, glue, cardboard, thread, and pins.
Can I use any old book for these crafts?
Yes, though thinner paperback pages tend to work best for cutting and folding. Choose a book you’re happy to take apart, such as a damaged copy or one destined for recycling.
Related Articles
Looking for more craft inspiration? You might also enjoy our ideas for easy paper crafts for kids, our guide to fun recycled craft projects, and our favourite rainy-day activities for children.
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