Live Laugh Rowe

A lifestyle blog that shares crafts, recipes, tutorials and life's moments.

DIY Vintage Book | Paper Mache

· · 35 Comments

This post may contain Amazon or other affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

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

Supplies:  

Paper Mache book
Paintbrushes/sponges
Acrylic paints
Adhesive (mod-podge, spray, or glue stick)
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 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 separate 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 to apply the image with the glue stick.  I thoroughly applied the glue over the image and laid 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!

Happy creating and crafting…

about kelly

ABOUT KELLY

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! Read more...

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Comments

    • Kelly says

      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!

    • Kelly says

      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!!

    • Kelly says

      Thanks so much, Jenn 🙂 I was pretty excited with how it turned out. Have a great week. xo, Kelly

  7. Kelly says

    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!

    Reply

  8. Vanessa says

    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

    Reply

    • Kelly says

      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 🙂

    • Kelly says

      Yay! Super glad to hear you like and can put it to good use. Woot!! Have a fabulous end to your week, Gina. xo

    • Kelly says

      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

  16. Holly @ My Sister's Suitcase says

    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!

    Reply

  18. PAULA says

    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

    Reply

  19. Christine says

    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!

    Reply

  22. Pat C. says

    I hope it’s not too late to tell you how much I love this project!♥ Thank you for your excellent tutorial! xoxo

    Reply