5 Smart Uses for Used Books
We all have cherished books that we can read over and over again, and those deserve a prominent place on our shelves! But what do you do with books that are past their prime?
At Ohio Valley Goodwill, we know that books that are faded, ripped, torn, or even falling apart can absolutely be reused and repurposed! In fact, there are some amazing craft projects you can make using upcycled books from Goodwill.
Read on for five creative ideas to give used books new life:
#1: Decorate with old books
First and foremost, used and vintage books can make amazing home décor. While some stores will charge a premium for decorative books and matching bookshelf stacks, you can easily create your own stylish decorations on a budget!
Books from Ohio Valley Goodwill
Here are a few ways to decorate with repurposed books from Goodwill in your home:
- Wrap hardcover books in brown kraft paper, scrapbook paper, or even fabric. Tie a stack of three to five books together with a ribbon and display them on a shelf.
- Arrange books on a shelf with some of the covers facing forward, and some turned backward. Place paperweights, candles, or other shelf décor on top of the book stack to add visual appeal
- For pretty holiday décor, cover books with wrapping paper. Add ribbon, faux poinsettias, or holly berries.
- Paint the hardcover books plain white or black, or use chalkboard paint for a ” distressed” effect. You can use stamps to add words to the book spines and stack them to display a fun saying or quote.
- If the covers are missing or in poor condition, you can still use them! Tie a few coverless books together with twine for a rustic look.
#2: Create DIY gift tags
Add a unique touch to gift bags or boxes with DIY gift tags made from book pages! Simply use scissors or a paper punch to cut the book page into the shape of a rectangular tag. Glue thick paper or cardboard to your cut-out to make it sturdy. Then, use a hole punch to add a small hole to the top. Finally, thread a ribbon or string through the hole and attach the tag to your package. Now you have a perfect gift tag for any book lover in your life!
#3: Make a book page wreath
Show off your love of literature with a book page wreath! Remove the pages from one or two old books and roll each page into a cone shape. Glue the cones to a premade wreath form or make your own wreath shape using cardboard. Add the pages in multiple layers to make your wreath large and full. Lastly, glue a ribbon loop to the back so you can hang your creation on your door.
#4: Repurpose hardcover books into storage boxes
If you have sturdy hardcover books with missing or damaged pages, you can repurpose the cover into a convenient storage box! Take out all the pages from your book, then use cardboard to create a box shape that will fit between the book covers. Make sure the box is the same height as the book’s spine so you can close it. You can use the storage box to hold sewing supplies, hair clips, pens and pencils, letters and cards, and other small knick-knacks!
#5: Add art to book pages
Children’s books at Goodwill
Shelf of Frames at Ohio Valley Goodwill
If you love to draw or paint, old book pages can provide a beautiful background for your art! Tape or glue old pages to a piece of sturdy paper or canvas and then get creative. When you’re finished, you can frame your original art with an affordable frame from Goodwill. Using similar backgrounds in your artwork is a great way to create a cohesive gallery wall in your home!
Find books galore at Ohio Valley Goodwill!
Whether you’re interested in reading, crafting, or touching up your home décor, Ohio Valley Goodwill is your go-to for all types of books! Our book selection is ever-growing, so you never know what hidden gems you’ll find from one day to the next. The best part is that our books are always priced affordably, you can get more for your money.
When you buy books from Goodwill, you’re also supporting our social mission to change lives through the power of work. You will feel great knowing that your Goodwill purchases are making a difference! We have 19 retail stores in and around Greater Cincinnati, so find a location near you today. Thank you for shopping and supporting Ohio Valley Goodwill!
