Grab some old books for a quick, creepy craft.
Sometimes it’s the simplest thing that adds just that little bit of mystery. And, sometimes, all it takes are a few supplies and a few spare minutes to make it happen.
I like to tuck little bewitching bits here and there when I haunt the house for Halloween. Small mice peek out from behind a stack of books, a skeleton hand perches atop a jar, or a witch hat hangs unassumingly on a hook near the back door. These small touches are a surprise to anyone who takes notice, and it’s super-simple to accomplish.
One easy way to add a little fright and fun is with old books.
We have a nice little collection of old books around here, and they come in quite handy for various projects.
Naturally, old dictionaries and medical books are my favorite. I love their vintage illustrations and definitions, as well as their worn appearance.
If you don’t have any such books in your library, they are relatively inexpensive and easy to find at your local thrifts and second-hand stores.
Once you’ve secured your book of choice, grab a frame for your project. This one was on clearance at Hobby Lobby and it holds a 3 inch photo.
You will also need a pencil and scissors.
If you just can’t stomach the thought of cutting into an old book (I feel ya) you will need to scan and print your image.
Take the glass from the frame and set it on top of the image or area in your book you wish to use.
Position the glass as to how you would like the image to be in the frame. Note that your image, like the glass, will sit behind a narrow ledge around the frame, so allow for that.
Once happy with the placement, trace around the glass.
Cut out your image along the line you traced.
Clean any fingerprints off of the glass and reassemble the frame.
Now, slip your new creation in among your regular decor or into a Halloween vignette. It will be a sinister surprise for whoever discovers it.
This little piece will likely end up in our Boneyard Gallery for Halloween.
