21 Uses For Old Books
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If you're a diehard bookworm, then you probably cringe at the idea of throwing away old books — even if your bookshelf has reached maximum capacity. Here's a solution: upcycle them into things you want to keep around the house, like jewelry, furniture, and decor. You'll still get to keep your treasured book and make good use of it while you're at it. Read on for 21 suggestions on what you can do with your old books.
— Additional reporting by Nicole Yi
Cards
Tear out old book pages to make greeting cards ($5). The background is suitable for all types of occasions — birthdays, graduations, and more.
Candleholders
Wrap candleholders ($20) with book pages on the outside and cut little shapes to let the candlelight or LED tea lights shine through.
Wedding Paper Cones
Use old book pages to make vintage-style wedding paper cones ($8) to hold your confetti.
Paper Flowers
Make paper-rose decorations to add an interesting twist to items including gifts and Christmas tree ornaments. To find out how to make your own paper rose ($6), read this tutorial.
Coasters
Get the look of these Harry Potter coasters ($20) by using ceramic tiles, Harry Potter book pages, and a few layers of decoupage glue and varnish.
Necklaces
Create a book-page necklace ($19) with a cutout of your favorite text or illustration. You can paint the piece with lacquer, or glue a glass gem on top of the cutout to turn it into a durable pendant.
Gift Tags
Turn old book pages into gift tags ($4) that you can attach to presents to better personalize them.
Cake Toppers
When you're making cake or cupcake toppers ($4), use book pages to give them a unique look.
Decorative Items
Use small bits of book pages as decorative items and insert them into things like vial necklaces or even terrariums ($12).
Garland
Make garlands ($40) out of book pages to use in parties or weddings. Here's a tutorial for how to make a paper garland.
Hidden Piggy Banks
Hollow out one of your old books to hide your cash and other valuables. No one will ever guess your secret hiding place ($17)!
Charging Stations
Create a charging dock ($40) for your iPhone, tablet, or other gadgets with an old book. Here are instructions on how you can make your own book charging station.
Table Runners
Create a vintage runner ($13) made of old pages by taping the pages together and using a decorative edge-puncher to create a cute border. You might want to lacquer the runner so it's not too fragile.
Furniture
Create furniture pieces like lamps ($95), side tables, or coffee tables by piling up old books.
Book Wreaths
Wreaths ($20) are an interesting use of book pages and would be perfect for any vintage-inspired wedding or fun party.
Ereader Covers
Use the cover of an old book to create a cover ($30) for your ereader. It's perfect for the nostalgic bookworm who made the transition from paper to digital.