Upcycled Trashed Books to Look Like Antique Treasures

Redoux Interiors
by Redoux Interiors
Turn an old book into a Antique Treasure by just using CeCe Caldwell's paints and 100% natural metallic wax.
I used Dumpster found books to create these works of art. It took very little effort, time and skill. My favorite kind of project!
I ripped the spine of the books to give them an instant worn look.
I lightly painted each book with a thin coat of CeCe Caldwell's Omaha Ochre.
I mixed equal parts CeCe Caldwells Aging Cream with El Dorado gold metallic wax. I use a small chip brush to mix and apply the wax.
I applied the wax randomly over the paint to give it an "aged" look.
I also applied it to the edges of the papers.
I tied each book with a piece of kitchen twine and added a little more El Dorado Gold on the high points for some extra shimmer.
Redoux Interiors
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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  • Corinna Agee Corinna Agee on Jun 05, 2017

    you paint first and then apply the wax? or you mix the paint and the wax to get the look? I have lots of old books I've never thought about painting them what a beautiful idea!!!!

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  • Baba Baba on Apr 06, 2017

    I love this idea!! I have been wanting to use old books in decorating.... this makes the perfect accent!! Great way to salvage old books!!

  • Op Cortez Op Cortez on Jan 13, 2019

    Finally found a post that actually describes how the process is done. Thanks for that. I do journals but I also love new ideas. You can also apply a light coating of white gesso, let dry then add your distress paint...

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