How to Paint Books and Give Them New Life
Who doesn’t love books? They not only add a personal touch to each room but some of them are just so beautiful. But what happens when you have old books you love, but the covers are a little shabby? A Makers’ Studio loves the effect books have on a room, so we created this painted book tutorial to help you create something that spruces up those old stories (and complements your space).
First, make sure to dust your hardcover books to make it easier for your paint to go on smoothly.
Then paint the entire cover of one book with one coat of your choice Rescue Restore Paint.
Allow to dry fully and then apply a second coat. While you wait, draw or trace a label shape onto a piece of cardstock and then cut it out with scissors.
Add a small amount of Dark Antiquing Wax to a dry brush, making sure to offload the excess onto your cardboard. Lightly brush the dark wax along the spine of the book to get it an aged look.
Decide what you want your labels to say. Words like “Love,” “Read,” or “Pray” are just a few ideas!
Lay down the first letter of your stencil and, using the ChalkArt™ Spreader, spread the Preaching to the Choir chalk paint. Remove the stencil and wash and dry it fully. Wait for the first letter to dry before painting the second one. Repeat until your label is finished!
Attach your label to the book with glue or tape, then embellish with twine or ribbon if you have any.
Want to know the best part about this fun DIY painted book project? You can enjoy your beautiful decorative books in about 60 minutes or less! Then, when you’re done, share them with us! Tag @amakersstudio on Instagram and use make sure we (and your community of fellow Makers) can see your beautiful work!
Enjoyed the project?
Suggested materials:
- Rescue Restore Paint (A Makers' Studio)
- Specialty Wedge Brush (A Makers' Studio)
- Dark Antiquing Wax (A Makers' Studio)
- Preaching to the Choir ChalkArt™ (A Makers' Studio)
- ChalkArt™ Spreader (A Makers' Studio)
- Alphabet stencil (your choice of font) (A Makers' Studio)
- Optional: Twine or Ribbon
- Scissors, Hardcover Books, Cardstock, Cardboard Pallet, Tape
Comments
Join the conversation
-
Igor Vecchi on Mar 24, 2019
Really cool idea!! I've got some old and outdated law books, can't wait to try this :)
-
Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?