How to make a book wreath
Wreaths made from the pages of books are becoming increasingly popular home decor, especially for those who like to read. Finding pre-made book wreaths can be tricky, and when you do find one, the cost can be astronomical. Book wreaths are great decorations year-round, or they can be dressed up with ornaments and ribbons to suit the changing seasons.
A few inexpensive supplies, a little time and some creativity can get you a gorgeous book wreath to hang on your wall.
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Things You'll Need
- 10-inch foam wreath
- One or two paperback books, depending on thickness
- Brown or gray craft paint
- Paper towel
- Craft knife (Optional)
- Glue gun and glue sticks
- Wide ribbon
Instructions
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1
Dip a paper towel in the paint and rub along all edges of the book's pages. Keep the book closed and only rub paint on the exposed page edges. You can use brown or gray craft paint or a combination of both. This will give the pages an antiqued look. If you are using an older book, you can skip this step.
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2
Once the pages are dry, carefully cut or tear them from the book using a craft knife. Roll the pages into cone shapes. There are various methods of rolling pages but do not fold or crease it, as this will change the look of the wreath. You do not need to glue your cones together at this time. Gluing them to the wreath form later will hold them together.
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3
Apply a strip of glue to your wreath and attach a few completed cones. Make sure the painted edges are facing out. Glue as much of the cone as necessary to hold it to the wreath form. Continue until you have completed one full rotation of the ring. This layer will become the bottom of the wreath.
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4
Flip the wreath over and lay something heavy on the top for a few minutes to help it lay flat. You may need to plump up these cones once the wreath is finished. Continue to roll pages, folding a 1/2-inch flap along the unpainted edge of the page.
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5
Apply another strip of glue to your wreath above the edge of the previous layer. Attach pages and work around the wreath. Continue to glue layers of pages onto the wreath until you reach the top.
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6
When you reach the inside of the wreath, apply a layer to the inner edge. These pages do not need folded tabs. The pages will be shorter than those on the rest of the wreath.
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7
Check your wreath to see if there are any areas that need some extra filler. Roll more pages and glue them in, one by one, until you are satisfied with how your wreath looks.
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8
Make a loop with your ribbon. Glue it to the back of your wreath to create a hanger.
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Tips & Warnings
If you have old books you do not plan to read anymore, consider recycling them into this wreath.
If using an older book, be careful that your pages do not crumble while rolling them.
