Made from Books

December 5, 2011  by Real Simple

Festive Decorations 

To grow this smart-looking tree, first construct a trunk by stacking five or six narrow books, preferably with brown or neutral covers. Then layer on roughly 12 opened ones (widest first) with the pages facing down. Try green or red covers, or a mix of both.

Present Topper (seen atop this book tree) 

Take a page from an outgrown or overly loved holiday book and fashion it into a bow.  Glue a hard candy in the center to add a sweet touch.

What you'll need: (All supplies should be available at your local craft store)

• An old book, preferably hardcover so the pages are larger
• Scissors or a utility knife
• A small stapler
• Adhesive glue dots

Instructions:1. Select a book page and cut it lengthwise into nine strips, ¾-inch wide. If you’re using smaller book you might need to cut up multiple pages. Leave three of the strips full-length. Cut one inch off three of the strips. Cut two inches off two of the strips. Cut the last strip down to 3 ½-inches long.

2. Twist each strip to form a loop at both ends and staple it in the center. Shape the last, short strip into a circle and secure it with a glue dot.

3. Layer the three longest pieces on top of each other, spacing them evenly and securing each with a glue dot. Add the next two groups of pieces, doing the same. And finally, stick the small circle into the center. 

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See what others are creating for the holidays via Metamorphosis Monday!