How to Make Decor Books: Easy DIY Ideas for Stylish Homes

How To Make Decor Books

Decor books are one of the easiest ways to add style and personality to any room. You have probably seen them in magazines, on coffee tables, or in home decor stores—beautifully stacked books with stylish covers, sometimes with gold accents, bold colors, or inspiring words. These books are not always meant for reading. Instead, they work as decorative elements that can instantly make a space look more polished and interesting.

Many people do not realize how simple it is to make your own decor books. You do not need to spend a lot of money on designer coffee table books. With a few materials, some creativity, and the right steps, you can create custom decor books that match your style and fit your home perfectly.

This guide will show you everything you need to know, from choosing the right books to adding the final touches.

Whether you want a minimalist look, something bold and colorful, or a set that fits your seasonal decorations, making decor books is a fun and rewarding project. You will learn how to personalize your books, what materials to use, and how to style them in your home for the best effect.

What Are Decor Books?

Decor books, often called coffee table books or stackable books, are books used mainly for decoration. They can be old books with new covers, blank journals with stylish designs, or even faux books made from boxes or wood. Their main purpose is to add beauty and interest to shelves, tables, and other surfaces.

These books often have:

• Stylish covers (painted, wrapped, or printed)
• Inspirational words or patterns on the spine or front
• Neutral or bold colors to match a room’s color scheme
• Sometimes, a removable cover for changing seasons or events

Decor books can be used in many places: living rooms, bedrooms, offices, and even bathrooms. They are perfect for stacking under candles, vases, or small decor pieces to create different heights and layers.

Why Make Your Own Decor Books?

Buying designer decor books can cost anywhere from $30 to $150 or more per book. Making your own allows you to:

• Save money by using old books or affordable materials
• Customize colors and text to match your style
• Change designs for different seasons or themes
• Recycle old books that you no longer read
• Have fun with a creative, hands-on project

Many people also find that making decor books is relaxing and enjoyable. It is a great way to add a personal touch to your home without needing special artistic skills.

Materials You Need To Make Decor Books

You do not need many supplies to get started. Here are the essentials:

• Hardcover books (old or new)
• Paint (acrylic, chalk, or spray paint)
• Paintbrushes or foam rollers
• Adhesive paper or contact paper (optional)
• Stencils or alphabet stickers for text
• Mod Podge or clear glue (for sealing)
• Scissors and tape
• Decorative paper (scrapbook, kraft, or wrapping paper)
• Ribbon, twine, or embellishments (optional)
• Sandpaper (for prepping surfaces)

If you want to make faux books, you may also need:

• Empty cardboard boxes or wood blocks

Choosing Books For Your Project

Not every book works well as a decor book. Here is what to look for:

• Hardcover books are best because they are sturdy and have a flat surface.
• The size should fit your space. Standard decor books are about 8–12 inches wide and 1–2 inches thick.
• Books with plain covers are easier to paint or wrap.
• Old textbooks, novels, or thrift store finds are perfect—just make sure they are clean and not too damaged.

If you want to use your decor books as storage, consider hollowing out the pages or using a box shaped like a book.

How To Prepare Books For Decorating

Before you begin, get your books ready:

• Clean the covers with a dry or slightly damp cloth.
• Remove any dust jackets or paper covers.
• If the cover is glossy, use sandpaper to roughen the surface. This helps paint or glue stick better.
• Make sure the spine and corners are not loose. Use glue to fix any issues.

Decorating Methods: Paint, Paper, And More

There are many ways to decorate your books. Choose one or mix different methods for variety.

Painting The Covers

This is the easiest way to change a book’s look.

• Use acrylic paint for a matte, smooth finish.
• Chalk paint gives a soft, farmhouse feel.
• Spray paint is fast and gives an even look but requires good ventilation.

Steps:

• Place the book on a protected surface.
• Apply a thin coat of paint to the cover and spine.
• Let it dry, then add another coat if needed.
• Allow the book to dry for at least 2 hours before handling.

Tips:

• For a distressed look, sand the edges lightly after painting.
• Use painter’s tape to block off areas or create designs.

Wrapping With Decorative Paper

If you want patterns or textures, wrapping is a good choice.

• Use scrapbook paper, kraft paper, or even wallpaper.
• Cut the paper larger than the book. Fold the edges inside for a neat finish.
• Use glue or double-sided tape to secure the paper.

Tips:

• Choose paper that is thick enough not to tear but flexible enough to fold.
• Use a ruler or bone folder for sharp edges.

Using Fabric Or Leather

For a luxurious look, try fabric or faux leather.

• Cut a piece larger than your book.
• Wrap and glue the fabric to the cover and spine.
• Fold the edges inside and secure.

Tips:

• Choose fabrics that do not fray easily.
• Velvet, linen, or faux suede can add texture.

Adding Text And Designs

Decor books often have words or quotes on the spine or cover. Here’s how to add them:

• Use stencils and paint for neat letters.
• Alphabet stickers are fast and come in many styles.
• Use a paint pen or permanent marker for freehand writing.

Popular phrases include:

• “Home”
• “Family”
• “Love Lives Here”
• “Gather”
• Seasonal words like “Spring” or “Christmas”

Tips:

• Test your design on paper first.
• Keep words short for best results.

Sealing Your Design

If you paint or use paper, seal your book to protect it.

• Use Mod Podge or clear-drying glue.
• Apply a thin layer with a brush.
• Let it dry completely before stacking or displaying.

Credit: alifeunfolding.com

Creative Ideas For Decor Books

You can make your decor books unique with extra touches. Here are some ideas:

• Gold or silver foil edges – Use metallic paint or foil for a high-end look.
• Ribbon or twine ties – Wrap a set of books together for a styled bundle.
• Pressed flowers or leaves – Add nature-inspired designs under a clear cover.
• Monograms or family names – Personalize for gifts or special occasions.
• Seasonal covers – Create removable covers for different holidays or events.
• Stamped designs – Use rubber stamps and ink for patterns or motifs.
• Layered paper cut-outs – Add dimension with shapes or borders.

Step-by-step: Making A Classic Decor Book Set

Let’s walk through a popular project: a set of three stacked decor books with painted covers and words on the spines.

What You Need

• 3 hardcover books (similar size)
• White or neutral chalk paint
• Paintbrush
• Alphabet stickers or stencils and paint pen
• Mod Podge or clear glue
• Sandpaper
• Ribbon or twine (optional)

Steps

• Prep the books – Clean the covers and sand lightly if glossy.
• Paint the covers and spines – Apply two coats, letting each dry fully.
• Add words – Use stickers or stencils for phrases like “Home Sweet Home” (one word on each book).
• Seal the design – Brush on a thin layer of Mod Podge.
• Stack and tie – Once dry, stack the books and tie with ribbon or twine.

Tips:

• Use different shades for each book for a soft ombre effect.
• Add a small charm or tag to the ribbon for a custom touch.

Styling And Displaying Decor Books

Knowing how to display decor books is just as important as making them. Here are ways to use them in your home:

• Coffee tables – Stack 2–3 books under a candle, vase, or small tray.
• Shelves – Place a book upright with the spine showing, or stack horizontally.
• Entryway tables – Use books as a base for keys, a bowl, or a photo frame.
• Nightstands – Place a small stack under a lamp or clock.
• Mantels – Use books to add height and layer decor pieces.

Tips:

• Mix and match book sizes for visual interest.
• Keep spines facing out if they have words or designs.
• Combine with other items like beads, greenery, or small sculptures.

Table: Comparison Of Book Cover Methods

To help you choose the best decorating method, here is a quick comparison:

Mistakes To Avoid When Making Decor Books

Many beginners make small errors that can ruin the look or durability of decor books. Here’s what to watch for:

• Skipping surface prep – Paint and glue will not stick well to glossy covers. Always sand lightly and clean first.
• Using thin paper – Wrapping paper can tear easily. Choose thicker paper for durability.
• Applying too much glue – Excess glue can cause bubbling or wrinkling. Use a thin, even layer.
• Not letting paint dry – Rushing between coats can cause smudges.
• Overloading with decorations – Too many embellishments can look messy. Keep designs simple and stylish.

If you want your books to last, always use quality materials and take your time with each step.

Table: Book Sizes For Different Spaces

Choosing the right size makes a big difference in how decor books look in your room. Here’s a guide:

Credit: www.youtube.com

Upcycling Old Books: Sustainable Decor

Making decor books is a great way to reuse old books instead of throwing them away. Upcycling gives new life to items you already have and reduces waste.

• Use thrift store books or ones you do not want to read again.
• Cover damaged or stained books with paint or paper.
• Combine different sizes and colors for an eclectic look.

Many designers now focus on eco-friendly decor, and upcycled books fit perfectly into this trend. You can even use recycled paper or natural fabrics for covers.

Advanced Techniques For Unique Decor Books

If you want to go beyond basic painting and wrapping, try these advanced methods:

Decoupage

Decoupage uses cut-out images or patterns glued to the book, then sealed with Mod Podge.

• Use magazine clippings, napkins, or tissue paper.
• Layer for a collage effect.
• Seal with several thin coats for a smooth finish.

Embossing

Embossing creates raised designs using heat and powder.

• Use embossing ink to write or stamp a design.
• Sprinkle with embossing powder.
• Heat with a craft heat gun to raise the design.

This works well for monograms or special motifs.

Faux Book Boxes

Make a hollow book for hidden storage.

• Cut out the center of the pages with a craft knife.
• Glue the edges together.
• Cover the outside as normal.

Or, use a wooden book-shaped box from a craft store.

Digital Printing

If you want a professional look, design covers on your computer and print them.

• Use design software or Canva.
• Print on high-quality paper.
• Wrap and glue to the book.

This method allows for custom patterns, logos, or family photos.

Credit: www.survivingateacherssalary.com

Table: Cost Breakdown For Diy Decor Books

Here is an example of what you might spend to make three decor books:

For less than $20, you can make a stylish set of decor books.

Inspiring Examples: Styles And Themes

Decor books fit any style or event. Here are some popular ideas:

• Minimalist – White or black covers with simple words.
• Farmhouse – Chalk paint, twine, and rustic fonts.
• Glam – Metallic paint, gold leaf edges, and bold patterns.
• Holiday – Red and green covers, festive words like “Joy.”
• Kids’ Rooms – Bright colors, playful fonts, and cartoon stickers.
• Wedding Decor – White and pastel books with wedding date or couple’s names.
• Seasonal – Change covers for spring, summer, fall, or winter.

For unique events, make a set as a personalized gift—for a birthday, anniversary, or housewarming.

Where To Find Inspiration

Looking for design ideas? Try these sources:

• Pinterest and Instagram – Search “decor books DIY” for thousands of photos.
• Home decor blogs and YouTube tutorials.
• Interior design magazines.
• Nature, art, or fashion trends.

Take a photo of your favorite designer books, then recreate the look with your own twist.

Non-obvious Tips For Success

Many beginners miss these details:

• Test paint or glue on a small area first. Some book covers react differently and may need a primer.
• Let each layer dry fully. Rushing causes smudges or sticky covers.
• Keep the spine flexible. If you plan to open the book later, do not glue or paint the inside edge.
• Store books away from moisture. Painted or paper-wrapped books can warp if kept in a damp place.
• Choose fonts that are readable at a distance. Thin or script fonts can be hard to see.

These small steps can make a big difference in the final look and feel of your decor books.

When To Buy Vs. Diy Decor Books

Sometimes, buying is the better option—especially if you need a specific designer brand or do not have time for a DIY project. However, making your own is usually:

• Cheaper
• More customizable
• More fun

If you are short on time but still want a personal touch, try buying plain white decor books and just add your own text or ribbon.

For more on home styling, you can read this helpful guide from Architectural Digest.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Keep My Decor Books Looking New?

To keep your decor books fresh, dust them regularly with a soft cloth. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight to prevent fading. If you used paint or paper, handle books with clean hands and keep them away from water or damp areas.

Can I Use Paperback Books For Decor Books?

You can use paperbacks, but they are less sturdy and may not stack well. For the best results, use hardcover books, or wrap a paperback with thick cardboard before decorating.

What Is The Best Paint For Decor Books?

Acrylic paint and chalk paint are both excellent choices. They dry quickly, cover well, and come in many colors. For a glossy finish, use spray paint, but always paint in a well-ventilated area.

Can Decor Books Be Used For Storage?

Yes! You can hollow out the center of a hardcover book or use a box shaped like a book. These are perfect for hiding small items like remotes, keys, or keepsakes.

Are There Copyright Issues With Decorating Books?

Decorating books for personal use is fine. If you plan to sell your creations, make sure not to use copyrighted images or logos without permission. Always use your own designs or materials labeled for commercial use.

Making decor books is a simple way to add style, color, and personality to any room. With the right steps, anyone can create beautiful, custom decor books that fit their taste and space. Enjoy the creative process and have fun making your home more beautiful!