Bookplates are a decorative label that is attached to the inside of a book. The purpose of a bookplate is to say who the book belongs to. Bookplates are easy to make and are a fun back-to-school craft project as well as being a great accompaniment to the gift of a book for any occasion.
How to Make Bookplates
A bookplate can be made in a variety of ways. Rubber stamping and hand printing are ideal techniques for making handmade bookplates and bookplates can also be created freehand. Here are some ways for making your own custom bookplates:
- Rubber stamps – rubber stamps are perfect for making bookplates. You can buy ready designed bookplate rubber stamps. However you could also use a combination of rubber stamps to create your own designs and simply write or print the text you require.
- Potato printing – if you are making bookplates with children then potato printing is a great project that they can get involved with (an adult should cut the potato for younger children). Simply cut a design into half a potato and make a print around the edges of the paper that is to be used as a bookplate.
- Stamp carving – creating your own custom rubber stamps for printing onto a bookplate is surprisingly easy to do. Many materials are suitable for carving, including lino and erasers. This will create a stamp that can be used repeatedly as required.
- Hand drawing – if you are only making one or two bookplates, perhaps to add to a book for a special gift, then you could consider hand drawing your design. If freehand drawing isn't your thing then consider tracing an image and adding colour as required.
Customizing printed bookplates – there are many free printable bookplates available and these are ideal for customizing. In addition to adding your own name and words, many are in black and white which means that they are great for coloring.
Text for Bookplates
Traditionally bookplates will simply say from the library of or ex libris. A simple this belongs to message is ideal for children's books. Depending on the book and the style of bookplate you are creating you may wish to also add a phone number or class details.
Bookplates as a Back-To-School Craft
While bookplates can be created for any type of book and for any occasion, they are a particularly good back-to-school craft project. This is a great activity for keeping a child engaged during the holiday as well as encouraging them to start thinking about the return to school in a creative and fun way.
Tips for Making Bookplates
Here are some tips for making bookplates:
- If you are making a bookplate for a special book then consider using acid-free supplies. This will help to preserve the book for generations to come. Scrapbooking supplies are often acid-free.
- Remember not to make the bookplate too bulky. A very heavy weight cardstock, for instance, may stop the book from closing properly.
- If you have several bookplates to make, consider making a master copy using stamps and hand printing techiques and copying this using a photocopier.
A bookplate is an interesting project to make and a great way to practice a variety of paper craft techniques.
Kate Pullen - Kate Pullen is a freelance writer specializing in arts and crafts , and is an accomplished craftsperson. As well as being a designer / ...
