Got a stack of old books gathering dust, or a battered dictionary nobody reads anymore? Before you recycle them, why not turn those pages into something new? Here are four fun book craft projects for kids that give old books a second life — perfect for a rainy afternoon, a book-themed party, or just a bit of creative fun together.
#1. Make Heart Strings
This lovely project from Dottieangel turns pages from an old book into pretty strings of paper hearts — great for decorating a bedroom, a party, or a book-themed event.
As well as the book, you’ll need scissors, sewing thread, wrapping paper and tape.
The step-by-step instructions on the blog are clear and easy to follow, so it’s a good one to try with younger kids too.
#2. Create Bookmarks and Tags
We love this idea from Vakuoli, who rescues old books and dictionaries and turns their pages into bookmarks and gift tags.
Start by making one or two simple templates out of cardboard — a rectangle, a luggage-tag shape, or anything you like. Then use the templates to draw around and cut out the old book pages, creating bookmarks and tags in whatever sizes you need.
#3. Make Paper Pinwheels
This charming project from Better Homes & Gardens shows how to make paper pinwheels from the pages of an old book. They’re often used as decorative toppers for cupcakes at a book-themed party, but they also make a fun standalone craft.
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 and make some googly-eyed bookmarks!
You’ll need coloured card or construction paper, scissors, a ruler, glue, and a pen and pencil. You can use craft googly eyes if you have them, or let each child draw their own eyes — we love that this means every bookmark ends up looking a little different.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age are these book crafts suitable for?
Most of these crafts work well for primary school-aged children, especially with a bit of adult help for cutting or using pliers. Younger children may need more supervision for the pinwheels, which involve pins.
Do I need to use a brand-new book?
No — in fact, these crafts are a lovely way to give old, damaged or unwanted books a new purpose. Charity shop finds, books destined for recycling, or old dictionaries all work well.
Can these crafts be used for a party theme?
Yes! Heart strings and paper pinwheels in particular work nicely as decorations for a book-themed birthday party or reading celebration.
What materials do I need to get started?
It varies by project, but common supplies include scissors, glue, cardboard for templates, sewing thread, pins and pliers. Each project above lists exactly what you’ll need.
Looking for More Craft Inspiration?
If you enjoyed these book crafts, you might also like browsing our other craft ideas for kids, our seasonal craft round-ups, and more paper-based projects perfect for a rainy day.
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Love these book craft ideas? Save this article or bookmark it so you have it ready the next time you need a rainy-day project or a book-themed party activity.
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