DIY Vintage Book | Paper Mache


Today I have a super fun project — DIY Vintage Book with paper mache.
So, let’s get this project underway.

Supplies needed:  Paper Mache book, paint brushes/sponges, acrylic paints,
an adhesive (mod-podge, spray or glue stick) and an image if you so choose.
I used the Scrapbooking Attitude product to transfer my image onto the book.

The first thing I did was design what I wanted on the front of my vintage book.  I designed this in Adobe Photoshop, then flipped the image (as seen below).   I printed this on a sheet of the printable scrapbooking film by Scrapbooking Attitude.  This will ensure that the picture and words are facing the right direction when applied to the book.  p.s. This product is pretty cool and can be used to transfer images onto to just about any surface!  I was dying to work on some paper mache, so the book won {smile}.

Once the image is printed, we’re ready to go to work on the book.  The first thing we need to do is paint the paper mache book.  I applied two coats.  Obviously I wasn’t super particular due to the fact that I was wanting the book to look vintage.  I sanded the book a little bit,  then went ahead and added a faux stain with brown acrylic paint that I watered down.  I then sanded some more.  Sand until your piece has the wear and tear that you’re looking for.

Now it’s time to add the image.  I loved this map and quote together — I just thought it was the perfect combination.  So, we need to adhere the image to the book.  I did have to do this twice.  My first attempt was not as successful.  I had originally tried adhering the image with a spray adhesive; however, the consistency of the mache made it tough and the image bubbled.  No worries, I then attempted applying the image with the glue stick.  I thoroughly applied the glue over the image and layed it on top of my surface.  applied pressure over the entire back of the image before slowly lifting the paper.  If necessary, be sure to rub out any remaining air bubbles.

And done!  I sanded just  a wee bit more to ensure it had the perfect appearance of wear and tear.  I just love the vintage look of the book.  Regardless of what I think — what do you think? Want to know another reason I {love} this project? The paper mache book serves as not only a decorative piece, but it opens for storage too {smile}.  That’s a huge bonus for me… I adore little storage nooks!
If you’re interested in additional information regarding the Scrapbooking Attitude product, visit with them on Facebook, Twitter or on YouTube. I believe it’s newer — but as you can see — it’s fabulous! Happy creating and crafting…

I’ll be partying {hereherehere and here}.
Home Stories A to ZCraft-O-Maniac and The Shabby Creek Cottage.
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About Kelly Rowe

A DIY fanatic, Kelly shares her journey through her blog, Live Laugh Rowe, where she showcases her recipes, tutorials, crafts, home projects, and all things DIY. This East Coast Girl at heart believes family is number one as she finds the perfect balance of being a daughter, wife, sister, entrepreneur, writer and woman of God. Be sure to follow along as she shares her passion for life, love and family! Google+

Comments

  1. Nice!

  2. That’s great! I’ve been looking for old books for my Halloween mantle and can’t find any I like! Now I can just make it! Where did you get the paper mache book? Just curious… =)

    • YAY! Super glad to hear these will come in handy for you :) I got mine at Micheal’s. Be sure to grab that 40% off coupon. HUGS!

  3. Book covers seem like a smart use of Scrapbooking Attitude.

  4. Kelly – This project is really cool and I can see it having so many uses. Like old school Christmas stories piled up as books by the tree… Darn, I think you added yet another project to my list… =)

    BTW, I really like your blog so I awarded you the Liebster Award: http://pocketfulofjoules.com/2012/09/10/im-a-liebster-award-winner-heck-yeah/

    • Thanks so much for loving on my project –and– nominating me for the Liebster Award. I’m flattered! Have a fabulous day. xo, Kelly
      p.s. LOVE the idea of the old Christmas inspired vintage books!!

  5. I love how it turned out! Great idea!!

  6. That looks amazing!! So realistic!

  7. That book looks amazing! I saw the picture you put on Facebook and I was sure it was a real book! I was thinking, “Where did she find such a gorgeous book! ;-)

  8. Awww. Thanks so much, Jo :) I’m kinda crushing on this book.. might need to make more! Thanks for stopping by…and visiting with me on FB. HUGS!

  9. Kelly that is seriously awesome!!! You just never cease to amaze me and it looks like something people would pay big bucks for at a boutique. Well done girlie! :-)
    Vanessa

    • Vanessa! You are seriously toooooo kind…. thanks so much for your sweet words. This was an exceptionally fun project. I think a Christmas one is in order :)

  10. Wow – fantastic job! I love the vintage look.

  11. Very cool!!!! I can definitely put this to use! Thanks!!!

  12. awesome, thank you for sharing. xo

  13. must love junk says:

    Very fun idea! Love it!
    Susan

  14. I ADORE this project! Love, love, LURVE :) Beautiful job!

    • WOW! Thanks so much, Gina! It was a pretty fantastic project… I already have a Christmas one on my to-do list. Have a fabulous day. xo, Kelly

  15. Kelly, I love this! This would make a great photo prop or backdrop too :)

  16. That is so fun! What a great craft and decorative accent! Love it, Kelly!

  17. I was just thinking about how I could make some custom vintage books for my Halloween Mantel!! Thank you so much… I will be heading to Michaels to grab one or two of those. Yours turned out just beautifully!

  18. This is such a cool idea! It really looks fantastic!

    Take care,

    Trish

  19. OMG how cute is this book. Great job! This is such a creative post. I would love it if you would share this post at our WIW linky party. Hope you can join us. :-)

    Paula
    ivyandelephants.blogspot.com

  20. I just LOVE IT Kelly!!!!! Soooo cool!!!! Feel free to make a couple for me :) hehe

    Thanks so much for sharing this at The DIY Dreamer.. From Dream To Reality!

  21. Kristine says:

    LOVE-LOVE! GREAT job!! I just might have to try this out at some point! :)

  22. april says:

    Whats up pretty girl!!! You won the most viewed link for sweet saturday! Get excited!!! Email me your address and I will send out your goodies! xoxo
    http://www.thegingerbreadblog.com/2012/09/sweet-saturday-link-party-v57-features.html

Trackbacks

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  3. [...] more  7) Yarn wrapped bangles by Eat Sleep Make  8) Brow Bag bay leaves by Homework  9) Vintage paper mache book by Live laugh Rowe  10) Bottle caps knobs by Plumberry [...]

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