DIY Book Purse: A Step-by-Step Guide To A Unique Accessory

Hey guys! Are you looking for a fun and creative way to express your love for books? Or maybe you just want a super unique accessory that’s sure to turn heads? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Today, we’re diving into the wonderful world of DIY book purses. This project is not only a fantastic way to repurpose old books, but it also allows you to craft a stylish and functional bag that showcases your literary passion. So, grab your crafting supplies, and let's get started on creating your very own book purse!

Why Make a Book Purse?

Before we jump into the how-to, let's talk about why making a book purse is such a brilliant idea. First and foremost, it’s incredibly unique. In a world of mass-produced handbags, a book purse stands out as a true original. You’re not just carrying a bag; you’re carrying a conversation starter, a piece of art, and a testament to your love of reading.

Secondly, it’s a fantastic way to repurpose old books. We all have those books that are falling apart, missing pages, or simply taking up space on our shelves. Instead of letting them gather dust or tossing them in the trash, you can give them a new life as a stylish accessory. This is not only eco-friendly but also adds a touch of nostalgia and character to your creation. Imagine carrying a purse made from your favorite childhood storybook or a classic novel – how cool is that?

Thirdly, making a book purse is a creative and rewarding project. It’s a chance to unleash your inner artist and create something truly special. You can customize your purse to reflect your personal style, choosing fabrics, embellishments, and hardware that speak to you. The process of transforming a book into a functional bag is incredibly satisfying, and the end result is something you can be proud of.

Finally, a book purse makes a great gift. If you have a book-loving friend or family member, a handmade book purse is a thoughtful and unique present that they’re sure to cherish. It shows that you put time and effort into creating something special just for them, and it’s a gift that they can use and enjoy for years to come.

Materials You'll Need

Okay, so you're convinced that making a book purse is awesome. Now, let's gather our supplies! Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need to get started:

• An old book: This is the foundation of your purse, so choose wisely! Look for a hardcover book that’s in decent condition but doesn’t necessarily need to be pristine. Thicker books will create larger purses, while thinner books will result in more compact bags. Consider the size and shape of the book, as well as the cover design, when making your selection. You might even want to visit a used bookstore or library sale to find the perfect candidate. The book will become the main shell for the purse. Its size and thickness will determine the final dimensions of your book purse. So, make sure you choose one that is sturdy and has a cover you adore!
• Fabric: You’ll need fabric for the lining and possibly for embellishments. Choose a fabric that complements the book cover and your personal style. Cotton, linen, and canvas are all good options. You can use different fabrics for the lining and exterior accents to add depth and visual interest to your book purse. A sturdy cotton fabric is perfect for the lining, providing durability and a clean finish inside your book purse.
• Craft knife or utility knife: This is essential for carefully cutting out the pages of the book, leaving the cover intact. A sharp craft knife or utility knife will allow you to make clean, precise cuts, ensuring a professional-looking result. Safety is key here, so always use a cutting mat and exercise caution when working with sharp blades. This step is crucial for creating the hollow interior of your book purse, so take your time and be precise.
• Ruler or straight edge: A ruler or straight edge will help you make straight cuts and ensure that your measurements are accurate. This is particularly important when cutting out the pages of the book and when attaching the hardware. A clear ruler with both inches and centimeters is ideal for this project, allowing for easy measuring and marking.
• Pencil: You’ll need a pencil for marking measurements and drawing cutting lines. A regular graphite pencil works well, but you can also use a mechanical pencil for finer lines and greater precision. A pencil is essential for marking the cutting lines inside the book, ensuring a clean and even hollow for your book purse.
• Glue (bookbinding glue or strong craft glue): Glue is crucial for securing the pages together and for attaching the lining to the book cover. Bookbinding glue is specifically designed for working with paper and is a great option for this project. However, a strong craft glue like Fabri-Tac or E6000 can also be used. The glue will hold the pages together, creating a solid block and a secure base for your book purse.
• Clamps or heavy objects: Clamps or heavy objects will help hold the book together while the glue dries. This is important for ensuring a strong and durable bond. You can use binder clips, spring clamps, or even heavy books to apply pressure to the glued pages. This step is essential for ensuring the pages are securely bonded, creating a sturdy shell for your book purse.
• Magnetic snap or closure: A magnetic snap or closure will keep your purse securely closed. You can find these at most craft stores in a variety of styles and sizes. Choose a snap that complements the overall design of your purse. A magnetic snap is an elegant and practical closure option for your book purse, keeping your belongings safe and secure.
• Purse handles or chain: You’ll need handles or a chain to carry your purse. You can purchase purse handles at a craft store or repurpose a chain from an old bag. Consider the length and style of the handles or chain when making your selection. Purse handles or a chain will allow you to carry your book purse comfortably and stylishly.
• Optional embellishments: This is where you can really let your creativity shine! Consider adding embellishments like buttons, beads, ribbons, lace, or charms to personalize your purse. These extra touches will make your book purse truly unique and reflect your personal style. Think about adding details like decorative brads, charms, or even a small tassel to make your book purse stand out.

With these materials in hand, you’re ready to embark on your book purse-making adventure! So, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, guys, let's get down to the nitty-gritty and start transforming that old book into a chic and unique purse! Follow these steps carefully, and you'll be struttin' around with your literary masterpiece in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Book

First things first, we need to get our book ready for its transformation. This involves creating the hollow interior that will serve as the purse's main compartment. Grab your chosen hardcover book and lay it flat on your work surface. Open the front cover, and the first few pages of the book need to be considered. Decide how deep you want the “pocket” of your purse to be. Usually, leaving about 20-30 pages intact at the front and back of the book will provide enough support for the spine and covers. These untouched pages will also create a nice “lip” for your purse, adding to its overall aesthetic.

Now, using your ruler and pencil, draw a rectangular outline on the first page you intend to cut. This outline will mark the area you’ll be removing to create the hollow interior. Make sure your outline is even and symmetrical, leaving a border of at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) around all edges of the page. This border will provide structural integrity to the purse and prevent it from falling apart. Think of it as the “frame” of your purse, so make it sturdy!

Step 2: Cut Out the Pages

This is where your craft knife or utility knife comes into play. Place a cutting mat underneath the page you’re working on to protect your work surface. Carefully begin cutting along the pencil lines, using your ruler as a guide to ensure straight, clean cuts. It’s better to make several light cuts than to try and force the blade through in one go. This will give you more control and prevent the blade from slipping.

Once you’ve cut through the first page, repeat the process for the remaining pages within your outline. You can cut through several pages at a time, but be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this can cause the pages to tear. Continue cutting until you’ve removed all the pages within your outline, creating a hollow interior in the book. This is the most time-consuming part of the process, but patience is key! The cleaner your cuts, the more professional your finished book purse will look.

Step 3: Glue the Pages

With the pages cut out, it’s time to secure the remaining pages together, forming a solid block. This step is crucial for the structural integrity of your purse. Take your bookbinding glue or strong craft glue and apply a generous layer to the cut edges of the pages. Make sure to coat all the edges thoroughly, as this will ensure a strong and durable bond.

Once the edges are coated in glue, carefully close the book, aligning the front and back covers. Now, it’s time to clamp the book together to allow the glue to dry properly. Use clamps or heavy objects to apply even pressure to the book, ensuring that the pages are firmly pressed together. You can use binder clips, spring clamps, or even heavy books for this purpose.

Allow the glue to dry completely, following the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes several hours, or even overnight. Don’t rush this step! Proper drying time is essential for a strong and durable book purse. Once the glue is fully dry, remove the clamps or heavy objects, and you should have a solid, hollowed-out book block.

Step 4: Add the Lining

Now that we have the basic structure of our book purse, it’s time to add the lining. The lining will not only protect your belongings but also give your purse a more finished and professional look. Measure the interior dimensions of the hollowed-out book. You’ll need to measure the length, width, and depth of the cavity to determine the size of the fabric pieces you’ll need to cut.

Cut out fabric pieces for the lining, adding about 1 inch (2.5 cm) to each dimension for seam allowances. You’ll need to cut out two side pieces, a bottom piece, and two end pieces. These pieces will form the interior “box” of your purse.

Sew the fabric pieces together to create a rectangular box that fits snugly inside the hollowed-out book. You can use a sewing machine or hand-stitch the pieces together, depending on your preference and skill level. If you’re using a sewing machine, use a straight stitch and a seam allowance of 1/2 inch (1.25 cm). Reinforce the seams by backstitching at the beginning and end of each seam.

Once the lining is sewn together, turn it right-side out and carefully insert it into the hollowed-out book. Fold the seam allowances inward and glue the lining to the inside walls of the book, using your bookbinding glue or strong craft glue. Make sure the lining is smooth and even, with no wrinkles or creases. Clamps or binder clips can be helpful for holding the lining in place while the glue dries. The lining adds a touch of elegance and professionalism to your book purse, while also protecting your belongings inside.

Step 5: Attach the Closure

To keep your belongings safe and secure, you’ll need to attach a closure to your book purse. A magnetic snap is a popular choice, as it’s easy to use and provides a secure closure. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for attaching the magnetic snap. Generally, this involves inserting the snap pieces through the fabric lining and the book cover, and then securing them in place with the provided washers or fasteners.

Position one half of the magnetic snap on the inside of the front cover and the other half on the inside of the back cover, ensuring that they align properly when the purse is closed. You may need to use a small tool, such as a screwdriver or pliers, to tighten the fasteners securely. The magnetic snap adds both functionality and a touch of elegance to your book purse, keeping your items secure while maintaining a stylish look.

Step 6: Add Handles or a Chain

Now it’s time to add the handles or chain that will allow you to carry your book purse. There are several ways to attach handles or a chain, depending on the style you prefer and the materials you’re using.

If you’re using purse handles, you can attach them directly to the book cover using screws or rivets. Position the handles on the spine of the book, making sure they’re evenly spaced and securely attached. You may need to pre-drill small holes in the book cover to make it easier to insert the screws or rivets. Strong handles are essential for a comfortable carry, allowing you to show off your literary masterpiece with ease.

If you’re using a chain, you can attach it to the book cover using D-rings or O-rings. Attach the D-rings or O-rings to the spine of the book using screws or rivets, and then attach the chain to the rings using clasps or jump rings. Make sure the rings are securely attached to the book cover to prevent the chain from pulling loose. A chain strap adds a touch of glamour and sophistication to your book purse, elevating its overall look and feel.

Step 7: Embellish (Optional)

This is where you can really let your creativity shine and personalize your book purse to reflect your unique style. Consider adding embellishments like buttons, beads, ribbons, lace, or charms to your purse. You can glue these embellishments directly to the book cover or sew them onto the fabric lining.

Think about adding details that complement the book’s cover design or that reflect your personal interests. For example, you could add a vintage brooch, a colorful tassel, or even a small book charm to your purse. The possibilities are endless! Embellishments allow you to express your personality and make your book purse a true one-of-a-kind accessory.

Tips for Success

Before you dive headfirst into your book purse project, let's chat about some tips and tricks that can help you achieve the best possible results. These little nuggets of wisdom will save you time, frustration, and maybe even a few crafting mishaps!

• Choose the right book: Not all books are created equal, especially when it comes to repurposing them into purses. Look for a hardcover book with a sturdy spine and covers. The thickness of the book will determine the size of your purse, so consider what you plan to carry in it. Thicker books will give you more space, but they’ll also be heavier. Also, pay attention to the cover design. Choose a book with a cover that you love, as it will be the focal point of your purse. Vintage books, classic novels, and even textbooks can all be great options, depending on the look you’re going for. The perfect book is the foundation of your perfect purse, so take your time and choose wisely.
• Use a sharp blade: When cutting out the pages, a sharp craft knife or utility knife is your best friend. A dull blade will tear the pages and make it difficult to achieve clean, precise cuts. Replace your blade frequently, or sharpen it regularly, to ensure optimal cutting performance. A sharp blade will glide through the pages effortlessly, giving you a professional-looking result. Plus, it's safer! A dull blade requires more force, which increases the risk of slipping and cutting yourself.
• Take your time: Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a perfect book purse. Don't rush the process. Take your time when cutting, gluing, and sewing. Patience is key to achieving a high-quality finished product. Rushing can lead to mistakes, which can be frustrating and time-consuming to fix. Enjoy the process of creating something beautiful and unique. Put on some music, relax, and let your creativity flow. The more time and care you invest in your book purse, the more you'll love the final result.
• Protect your work surface: Cutting and gluing can be messy business, so be sure to protect your work surface. Use a cutting mat when cutting out the pages, and cover your work area with newspaper or a drop cloth when gluing. This will prevent damage to your table or desk and make cleanup a breeze. A clean workspace is a happy workspace, and it allows you to focus on the task at hand without worrying about making a mess.
• Clamp it up: Clamping the book while the glue dries is essential for creating a strong and durable bond. Use plenty of clamps or heavy objects to apply even pressure to the book. This will ensure that the pages are firmly pressed together, creating a solid block. Don't skimp on the clamps! The more pressure you apply, the stronger the bond will be. You can use binder clips, spring clamps, or even heavy books to get the job done.
• Get creative with embellishments: Embellishments are where you can really let your personality shine. Don't be afraid to experiment with different materials and techniques. Add buttons, beads, ribbons, lace, charms – whatever makes your heart sing! You can even incorporate fabric scraps, vintage jewelry, or found objects into your design. The sky's the limit! Your book purse is a blank canvas, so have fun and express yourself.

Show Off Your Literary Style!

There you have it, guys! You've just crafted your very own DIY book purse – a unique and stylish accessory that's sure to turn heads. This project is not only a fantastic way to repurpose old books but also allows you to express your love for literature in a creative and fashionable way.

So go ahead, strut your stuff and show off your literary style! Your book purse is more than just a bag; it's a statement piece, a conversation starter, and a testament to your creativity. And who knows, you might even inspire others to embark on their own book purse-making adventures!

Now that you know how to make a book purse, the possibilities are endless. You can experiment with different book sizes, cover designs, fabrics, and embellishments to create a whole collection of unique bags. Think about making book purses as gifts for your book-loving friends and family, or even selling them at craft fairs and markets. The world is your oyster, so get creative and have fun!

Happy crafting, and may your book purse be the talk of the town!