How to Sew a Cloth Book Cover
Sewing a book cover is simple, yet makes a big difference in the look of the book. You can cover anything from small paperback books to large textbooks for school. Cloth book covers last much longer than paper or plastic book covers and look nicer, as well. They help the book last a long time because it protects it from dirt and smudges and keeps the cover from being torn.
Instructions
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1
Measure the width and height of the book cover.
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2
Double the width of the cover and add the width of the spine to the measurement.
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3
Cut out two pieces of fabric using the height and doubled width plus 1/2 inch on all four sides for a seam allowance.
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4
Cut out two panels of fabric. They should measure the height of the book by the width of the book, minus 1 inch. Again, make sure that you have added 1/2 inch to all sides.
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5
Lay the two larger rectangles on top of each other with right sides together. Pin.
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6
Sew around the rectangle, making sure to leave at least 2 inches open on one side so that you can turn the fabric right side out.
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7
Trim the seams and turn the fabric right side out. Sew the opening closed.
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8
Sew a 1/4-inch hem on one long side of both smaller rectangles.
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9
Lay the cover fabric on the table with the outside of the cover facing up. Lay the two side panels on top, with the right sides facing the large panel of fabric. Make sure the side panel hems are toward the center of the cover.
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10
Pin the panels to the cover along the three outside edges and sew them. Make sure to leave the fourth hemmed side open.
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11
Take the pins out and turn the fabric right side out.
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12
Slide the book into the cover.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Add a hook and loop or button closure to keep the book closed. This looks nice on a special book or diary.
You can give the cover more body by adding a layer of batting in between the two pieces of fabric for the cover.
For a different look, consider using two different fabrics in the same cover.
References
- Photo Credit book cover image by charles taylor from Fotolia.com
