5 Creative Upcycling Hacks for Old Books You’ll Love in Austin

Austin, Texas, is a city that thrives on individuality and creativity. Known as the Live Music Capital of the World, it’s not just music that makes Austin unique. With sustainability becoming a growing focus, upcycling is a natural fit for the city’s ethos, and old books provide a perfect canvas for creative reuse.

If you’re an Austinite with a pile of old books collecting dust, you’re in luck. Upcycling books doesn’t just help reduce waste; it also adds a quirky, personal touch to your living space.

Here are five upcycling ideas that transform your books into functional and decorative treasures.

1. Book Planters for a Greener Home

Austin homes love a touch of greenery, whether it’s succulents brightening an East Austin kitchen or a row of cacti on a South Lamar patio. Old hardcover books can be turned into stunning planters that double as conversation pieces.

To make your own book planter:

• Choose a thick hardcover book with an eye-catching cover.
• Hollow out a rectangle in the center of the pages, leaving a border around the edges.
• Seal the inside with a plastic lining or waterproof sealant.
• Add soil, a small plant, and voila! You have a living planter.

Perfect for adding rustic charm to your space, these planters align beautifully with Austin’s love for combining nature and creativity.

2. Turn Old Books into Wall Art

Austin homes often reflect the city’s artistic personality, and what better way to showcase it than through wall art made from old books? Create a unique visual statement by unfolding book pages into intricate shapes and mounting them for display.

For instance, fan out book pages into a semi-circle or create 3D floral designs. Secure them on a canvas or attach the pages directly to the wall with removable fixtures. This type of upcycled art is great for adding character to a home office or living room while paying homage to Austin’s love of art and literature.

3. DIY Storage Boxes

Storage isn’t always plentiful in Austin’s cozy bungalows or modern apartments, making clever organization a must. Turn old books into functional storage boxes for keepsakes, jewelry, or even remote controls.

Here’s how:

• Hollow out the inside of a hardcover book, similar to the planter method.
• Line the interior with fabric or paper for a polished look.
• Use it as a hidden compartment or stack a few “box books” together for visible but subtle storage.

These storage boxes aren’t just practical. They bring a clever, vintage charm to your home.

4. Decorative Book Page Garlands

If you’re hosting a backyard party in Zilker or decorating for an intimate gathering indoors, garlands made from book pages can elevate your event decor. Cut book pages into heart, star, or leaf shapes and string them together using twine or string lights.

Hang them across windows, patios, or accent walls for an effortlessly chic, literary-themed atmosphere. The garlands nod to Austin’s love of both creativity and sustainable practices, making them the perfect decor item for any occasion.

5. Book-Binding Photo Frames

Combine sentimental value with artistry by turning old books into photo frames. Hardcover books with beautiful spines are ideal for this. Simply cut out a window in the front cover of the book, insert a favorite photo, and secure it inside the cover with tape or glue.

These DIY photo frames are perfect for displaying memories while adding a touch of literary elegance to your shelves or tabletops. They’re also great gifts for friends who appreciate Austin’s creative and personalized touch.

Conclusion

Austin is a city that thrives on creative expression and a commitment to sustainability, and upcycling old books encapsulates both these principles. It’s a fun way to beautify your home, make practical items, and honor the stories held within the pages of books that may no longer be read.