Making Book Cover Cards

Here are the basic steps and supplies used in creating a book cover card. 

1. Aquire Hardcover Books

Obvious. But still needs to be mentioned.

I generally find my books at thrift stores. Any hardback book that you no longer want will work just fine.

2. Remove Cover From Book Spine

I use a retractable utility knife on a self-healing craft mat to cut the book apart. You could use a sharp knife with old wood underneath. Make do with what you have. My craft mat protects the surface but has grooves and ruts so probably isn't meant for a blade that sharp.

3. Spread Modeling Paste on Book Cover

I apply a thick coat of Liquitex Modeling Paste with a palette knife. I smooth it out a bit but leave it uneven in spots. Reminds me of plaster.

It is then left to dry overnight.

This tests my patience.

4. Use Stencil to Add Design / Paint Dark Undercoat

After the first layer of modeling paste is dry I generally like to add a design element with a stencil. This requires the modeling paste to be spread over the top of the stencil with a palette knife. This creates an interesting raised texture.

Of course it needs to dry overnight.

Testing my patience once again.

Once dry, I apply the first coat of paint--generally a dark-ish color. I use regular craft paint for this--my favorites are Americana, Folk Art or Blick Matte Acrylics .

5. Paint Layers of Lighter Color

I like starting with a darker color and getting lighter. This allows colors to peek through on the edges. Sometimes just mixing the color with white will create the perfect subtle change.

Often you can see 3-4 different colors which I think adds to the overall interest. 

6. Pound Letters into Book Cover

Let the noisy, headache-inducing pounding begin.

I wish I were kidding.

Yes, each letter is individually hand pounded.

Yes, it is quite loud.

I don't measure or draw lines or try to make the letters too perfect. 

I use the Melody Ross Chip Art tools which are no longer available. They were designed for leather making so something like this might be an alternative.

7.  Glaze Cover & Darken Letters

Once the words are done I apply a glaze to the entire surface.

To make the glaze I mix Liquitex Matte Medium with a dab of Liquitex Raw Umber paint and water. I apply the glaze with a paintbrush into all the crevices then wipe away with a damp paper towel. I do this a few times until I get the right look.

Once dry, I fill in the letters with a black or brown Faber Castell Pitt Pen.

The front of the Book Cover Card is now finished. If you'd like to see some examples of ones I've finished look here.

I hope you'll give it a try. If you do please send me a photo.

I'd love to see what you create.