Introduction: Book Clutch

Creating a clutch out of a book is a fun way to upcycle a damaged book. You will need:

  • A book cover
  • Spray adhesive
  • Glue gun
  • Fat quarter of fabric
  • Cardboard
  • A bead
  • Ribbon or elastic

Step 1: Creating the Lining

Open the book cover and lay it down flat. Measure the book. Add an inch to each side of the book. Cut the fabric to the appropriate size.

Pin under 1/2" of fabric on each side and iron flat.

Step 2: Creating the Sides

Stand the book on its side with the cover open to about a 45 degree angle.

Trace around the cover then add about a half inch.

Fold a piece of fabric in half. Line the top of the template with the fabric fold and cut. (cut two)

Fold the fabric in half lengthwise and iron down

Step 3: Reinforcing the Spine

Measure the size of the book’s spine. Cut two strips of cardboard the same size.

Glue fabric to one of the strips.

Set both pieces aside to use later.

Step 4: Creating the Catch

Lay the book flat and measure the length. Find and mark the center.

Using a nail, poke through the cover.

Thread a bead with ribbon. Pull the ribbon through the hole. Use hot glue to keep it in place.

On the opposite cover, use another piece of ribbon. Form a loop and glue it to the top center of the cover (interior).

Step 5: Attaching the Sides

Fold the extra half inch of fabric under and iron down.

Using a hot glue gun, glue the tip of the side pieces to the spine of the book.

Next, take the cardboard reinforcement (the one not covered with fabric) and glue it to the spine over the fabric.

Apply hot glue to the 1/2" of fabric you folded and ironed down. Press the fabric along the covers' interior edges.

Step 6: Attaching the Lining

Spray one interior cover with adhesive. Attach the lining.

Spray the interior spine and opposite book cover with adhesive and attach the lining.

Allow the lining to dry.

Using the glue gun, apply hot glue to the underside of the cardboard reinforcement covered with fabric. Place inside the purse on the book’s spine.