We all have an old book at home that we don't need anymore. Maybe it has a spill. Maybe the kids (or dog) tore out a few pages. Either way, here's a cute idea to give life to that book by making a simple monogram decoration. With a few extra supplies, you can easily make up many of these for inexpensive gifts, too.
What you will need:
Page from a book
Frame – size depends on size of book page 4×6 or 5×7 is preferred
Scissors
Paper clips
Pencil
Sharpie
Stencil or print letters of your choice for graphite transfer
Directions
1. Disassemble frame. Use the glass or back of frame to trace old book page.
2. Cut out book page.
3. Print out the letter(s), then cut them out. Note: It may take you a couple of tries to print out a size of letter you like for your page. You can also handdraw the letter if you're brave!
4. On the BACK of your print out letter, fill in paper with heavy pencil markings to creat a graphite transfer (step 6).
5. Place letter on your book page with printed side facing up (the pencil markings face down on the page) and attach it with paper clips.
6. Using a pen, trace the outline of print out letter and use pressure on pen while tracing.
*If the pencil markings are not transferring to the book page press harder with your pen to outline or you might need to go back and press harder with your pencil marking on the back of letter. The other option is to cut out the letter and trace the outside of the cutout.
7. Once you have the graphite outline transfer on to the book page, fill in letter with sharpie. You can use a regular fine point marker or a sharpie pen for more precision. For a different look try color sharpies.
8. Once you are complete with your graphite transfer place in picture frame and enjoy!
Extra Ideas:
When choosing an old book you may want to pick out a cook book if your passion is in the kitchen, or a grammar book if you are an English teacher. It would add an extra special touch to your creation.
More options instead of A & J could be: one large letter, name, special calendar date or word like; Love, Read, Cook, Family and so much more!
Interested in more crafts? Join usat Ladies Crafts Night! Find out more on our Facebook Events page!