How to Make a Drawer in an Altered Book
Creating a drawer in an altered book is a fascinating and creative way to add depth and functionality to your artwork. Altered books are essentially books that have been transformed into unique pieces of art, where every page can be a canvas for your imagination. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making a drawer in an altered book, transforming it into a versatile and visually appealing work of art.
Materials Needed
Before diving into the project, gather the following materials:
1. An old book with sturdy pages
2. Scissors or craft knife
3. Pliers or needle-nose pliers
4. Double-sided tape or glue
5. A piece of sturdy cardboard or thick paper
6. Decorative paper or fabric for the drawer front
7. Optional: ribbon, buttons, or other decorative elements
Step 1: Prepare the Book
Start by selecting an old book that you feel has a story to tell. Remove any unwanted pages and make sure the book is clean and dry. It’s essential to work with a book that has sturdy pages, as they will need to support the weight of the drawer.
Step 2: Cut the Drawer Opening
Using a ruler and a craft knife, measure and mark the location where you want to create the drawer opening. This should be on one of the interior pages of the book. Cut along the marked lines to create the opening, ensuring that the edges are clean and even.
Step 3: Create the Drawer
Take the piece of sturdy cardboard or thick paper and measure it to fit the opening you just created. Cut it out and fold it in half to form the drawer’s sides. Secure the folds with double-sided tape or glue.
Step 4: Attach the Drawer to the Book
Place the drawer inside the opening, ensuring that it fits snugly. Use double-sided tape or glue to attach the drawer to the book’s pages. If desired, you can also add decorative elements such as ribbon or buttons to the edges of the drawer.
Step 5: Decorate the Drawer Front
Now it’s time to give your drawer a unique look. Cut a piece of decorative paper or fabric to fit the drawer front. Attach it to the drawer using double-sided tape or glue. You can also add additional decorations to the front, such as buttons, ribbons, or even small pieces of fabric.
Step 6: Add Functionality
To make your altered book drawer functional, consider adding a pull or a handle. You can create a simple handle using a piece of ribbon or a button, or you can design a more intricate pull using decorative paper and a piece of wire.
Conclusion
Creating a drawer in an altered book is a rewarding project that allows you to combine creativity with functionality. By following these steps, you can transform an old book into a unique piece of art that serves as both a storage solution and a conversation starter. Happy crafting!
