Hey Tombow Friends! This is Jennie and this Summer our family is doing our local library’s reading challenge! We also want to do other reading activities like buddy reading in a fort, going to a new independent bookstore, and exploring new Little Free Libraries.
If you don’t know what is a Little Free Library, they are book exchange boxes placed in communities to foster the love for books and reading. The system encourages readers to leave a book and take a book. It’s a great way to circulate books when your kids outgrow books!
For this project, we are going to do a blind date with a book!
Supplies:
- Tombow Xtreme Adhesive
- Book
- Tombow Fudenosuke Brush Pen
- Kraft Paper (I recycled a paper bag)
- Tombow MONO Drawing Pen
- Scissors
Step One: Pick a book.
I suggest that you pick a book that is in good condition. Try to pick something that doesn’t have the potential to be controversial or triggering.
Step Two: Cut the paper.
I used a paper bag instead or kraft paper. Whatever paper you use must obscure the cover in order to really be a blind date with a book.
Measure the book on the paper and cut it. Leave enough space to put adhesive without touching the book.
Step Three: Wrap the book.
The Tombow Xtreme Adhesive is really strong, so it’s perfect for gift wrapping.
I used these deco scissors to mimic the pattern of stamp borders.
Make sure you apply the Tombow Xtreme Adhesive to every layer so it doesn’t open.
Step Four: Decorate the book!
On the outside of the cover, you can add stickers, washi tape, and of course lettering! I used the Tombow Fudenosuke Brush Pen to letter a quote from the book.
Always practice lettering on a scrap piece of paper before lettering on the final project. I added space for the twine I wrapped around the book.
The Tombow Fudenosuke Brush Pen comes with a little ruler for Japanese calligraphy. I used it to write some information about the book in a straight line. It’s always good to add the genre and audience. A brief summary with no spoilers can be helpful too!
I added a few used stamps to decorate the book.
Keep it as simple or as elaborate as you feel!
Step Five: Drop off the book!
Your blind date with a book is ready! Now is time to look for a Little Free Library near you. Use the app or website to type a location or use the location tracker on your phone to search.
Remember to check into the little free library, and log how many books you took and donated.
Little Free Libraries are a great way to reduce and reuse.
You can also organize a blind date with a book exchange with your book friends!
I hope you enjoyed this project! If you give it a try, use the hashtag #tombowusa so we can see it!