Reuse Damaged Books To Make Adorable Plexiglass Bookmarks

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With stained covers, torn pages, and broken bindings, it can be pretty obvious when a book has reached the end of its shelf life. But just because the book isn't necessarily prime reading material anymore, doesn't mean you should throw it away. There are all kinds of ways to repurpose books that you aren't reading anymore. For example, old books, whether they're novels or children's stories, make excellent collage materials and can be transformed into some stunning decor pieces as well. That said, one of the most obvious ways to reuse your old reading material is to turn the pages into cute bookmarks. Using plexiglass cutouts as a template, you can create unique, completely uniform bookmarks for all your future reads.

Now, this DIY likely won't have you using an entire book, but don't worry, there are a variety of ways to use the remaining material. For example, you can breathe life into your used books with a whimsical wall decor DIY or simply stack the books on a shelf somewhere for a fun, vintage look. If you don't already have old books lying around the house, you can easily pick some up at your local thrift shop.

To complete this bookmark DIY, you will need an old book, one sheet of crafting plexiglass, a marker, a ruler, and some scissors. To make the plexiglass template, use your ruler and marker to measure and mark the perfect bookmark shape. Your size preferences may vary, but a typical bookmark should measure 2 inches by 6 inches. Once you're happy with the markings, use scissors to cut out the plexiglass shape. This piece of plexiglass will help you frame your bookmarks before cutting them out, ensuring you get the perfect size and shape. Next, simply place the template over an old book page and use your marker or a pencil to trace around the edge. Then, cut the paper out and you have a beautiful new bookmark.

If you prefer a paper-thin bookmark, you can stop the DIY here. However, if you're looking for something with a little more structure, you can opt to cover the paper in RowinsyDD Self-Adhesive Laminating Sheets. These sheets don't need any heat or special machines and will give your bookmark a clear, protective cover. Another option is Clabby Holographic Sticker Paper, which would add a touch of whimsy to your DIY bookmark. If you have leftover string or ribbon lying around, you could add a tassel by punching a hole in the top of your bookmark and adding it as a unique way to repurpose leftover ribbon in your home. Customize this DIY even further by including materials other than books, such as magazines, old photographs, and newspaper clippings, creating literary collage bookmarks that are sure to start conversations.