Cover a book with a paper bag
Make a removable hardback book cover from a paper shopping bag. Fold pockets for both boards and leave enough room for the spine to move.
- Estimated time
- 20 min
- Skill level
- Beginner
Before you start
Choose a clean bag with enough uncreased paper to cover both boards and the spine, plus a flap at each end. Use this method on a sound hardback. Test folds on a scrap if the paper is stiff and keep any tape on the paper rather than the book.
Tools and materials
- Clean paper shopping bag
- Scissors
- Ruler
Step-by-step instructions
Open the bag flat
Cut down one side and remove the base and handles. Set the book on the plain side of the sheet.
Fold the top and bottom
Mark the book height and fold the paper to match it, with a little clearance so the book closes freely.
Fold pockets for both covers
Centre the closed book on the folded sheet and wrap the paper loosely around it. Mark where each board ends. Remove the book and fold the spare paper inward at both marks, leaving a little space for the book to open. The top and bottom folds form the pockets.
Fit and adjust
Slip the front and back boards into the sleeves, then close the book and check that the spine moves freely.
Check the result
Open the book fully enough to read and close it again. The covers should move freely and the paper should stay on both boards. If the paper lifts near the spine, make a fresh crease with a little more room.
Troubleshooting
If the cover pulls tight when the book closes, take it off and remake the end folds with more room.