Got a stack of old books gathering dust? Before you recycle them, why not turn a few pages into a craft project instead. Here are 4 fun book crafts for kids that are easy to set up, use simple materials you probably already have at home, and give an old book a lovely new lease of life.
#1. Make Heart Strings
This lovely project uses pages from an old book to cut out sets of paper hearts, which are then strung together to make a pretty garland. As well as your old book, you’ll need scissors, sewing thread, wrapping paper and tape. It’s a simple, low-mess craft that’s great for younger children with a little help, and the finished strings look gorgeous hung across a bedroom or playroom.
#2. Create Bookmarks and Tags
We love this idea of rescuing old books and dictionaries and turning their pages into bookmarks and gift tags. Cut a template or two out of cardboard first, then use them to draw around and cut shapes from the book pages. Once you have your templates, you can make as many bookmarks or tags as you like, in whatever sizes suit.
#3. Make Paper Pinwheels
These pretty paper pinwheels are made from pages of an old book and make a fun decoration for a book-themed party, popped on top of cupcakes or used as table decorations. You’ll need an old book, some pins, a pair of pliers and some sticks to attach your pinwheels to.
#4. Make Google-Eyed Bookmarks
Try our own MyKidsTime project for making googly-eyed bookmarks. You’ll need some coloured card or construction paper, scissors, a ruler, glue, and a pen and pencil. You could use craft googly eyes instead of drawing them on, but we love that drawing them lets each child give their bookmark its own individual character.
Did you try any of these book-y projects? Let us know how you got on in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I make with an old book?
Old books are perfect for craft projects like paper heart garlands, bookmarks, gift tags, pinwheels and decorative bookmarks. Choose books that are damaged or no longer needed rather than ones you’d like to keep or pass on.
What age are these book crafts suitable for?
Most of these crafts suit primary school-aged children, especially with an adult helping with cutting or using pliers. Younger children can help with gluing, drawing and choosing pages.
Do I need special craft supplies for these projects?
No – each project uses everyday materials like scissors, glue, card, thread and pins. Nothing here needs anything fancy or hard to find.
Can I use pages from any old book?
It’s best to use books that are damaged, incomplete or no longer wanted, rather than books with sentimental or resale value. Charity shop finds or books destined for recycling work well.
Related Articles
- Easy Paper Crafts for Kids to Try at Home
- Fun Upcycling Craft Ideas for Kids
- Simple Bookmark Ideas Kids Can Make Themselves
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