Decorating with Books

This serving cart becomes book smart when used as a book mobile. Stack or prop books on the shelves, and add personal accents, such as flowers, potted plants, collectibles, and art. Because the cart is on wheels, it can turn any corner of a room into a fashionable and functional book nook.

Elevate the importance of a treasured book jacket by displaying it as a work of art. Solo or one of a group, book art will catch the eye. Find mini easels at hobby and crafts stores.

Customize a message board with clippings from books and magazines. Arrange magnetic strips in a square to mimic a frame. Attach pictures, articles, and inspirational images, changing the display frequently to keep it in season or centered on a theme.

Decoupage script onto a mirror frame for a tableau of text.
-- Remove the frame, or apply masking tape around the glass to protect it.
-- Apply a thin coat of decoupage medium over the entire frame; allow to dry.
-- Cut pages from an old or discarded book, apply decoupage medium to the back side, and place on frame. Press pages into creases and around curves. Fill the entire frame, overlapping the text for interest.
-- Apply a finish coat of decoupage medium; let dry.

Give plain plates a writer's edge. Use a computer and color printer to make oversize ampersands or exclamation points. Copy onto waterslide decal paper (reverse image will appear), cut around the motif, and follow manufacturer's instructions to apply to plate. Finish with a spray varnish; oven-proof plates can be finished by baking the decal onto the surface (follow manufacturer's instructions). The dishes will not be food safe, so should be used only for decorative purposes.

For literary linens: Compose quotations on a computer and print onto iron-on transfer paper for lightweight fabric (reverse image will appear). Cut around quotation; follow manufacturer's instructions to apply to cotton or cotton-blend napkins.

A ready-to-assemble bookcase becomes an attractive focal point when draped with a cafe curtain. Attach a lightweight curtain rod to the top of the bookcase; add the fabric you fancy.

Plant the gift of learning in a youngster's room by filling a window box with books. Mount a lightweight planter on a wall. Also use these handy bins to store toys, papers, and stuffed animals.

Here's a past-perfect idea for old books.
-- If a vintage book is falling apart, gently remove the spine from the binding and neatly trim the edges to create a bookmark.
-- Using glue, adhere the spine to heavy card stock.
-- To seal, brush on a light coat of decoupage medium.
-- Punch a hole in the top edge; thread a corded tassel through.

Old-fashioned library loan cards are the inspiration for stylish bookplates.
-- Create a nameplate design on a computer, leaving space for leaves.
-- Rubber stamp with a leaf design.
-- Glue the nameplate to a pocket made from card stock; adhere the pocket to the inside cover of a book.
-- Design a loan card to fit inside the pocket.