Alexei Volkov
Covering school books with sticky-back plastic is a great way to keep your books looking neat and tidy, and it's also a fun way to express your individual style. While some schools don't require books to be covered, it can help prevent mix-ups and is a simple process that can be made creative with the use of coloured card, washi tape, stripes of paper, and collages. This guide will take you through the steps to sticky back plastic your school exercise books and keep them in good condition.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Protect school books, show off individual style, prevent book mix-ups, keep books neat and tidy |
| Materials | Sticky back plastic, wrapping paper, stickers, washi tape, coloured card, fabric bundles, Posca pens, Sharpies |
| Steps | Measure and cut plastic, peel off backing paper, stick book to plastic, smooth out air bubbles, add decorations |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right materials
When it comes to choosing the right materials for sticky-backing your school books, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, you can opt for contact paper, which comes in rolls and adheres to the book like a sticker. This is a convenient option as it doesn't require any additional tape to secure it in place. Alternatively, you can go for non-adhesive plastic wrap, which is a more versatile option as it can be used for various projects. However, this type of plastic wrap will need to be taped down. Both options will effectively protect your books, so the choice depends on your personal preference and the look you want to achieve.
If you want to get creative, you can use colourful sticky back plastic to add a unique touch to your school books. Ryman, for example, offers a range of colourful and patterned washi tape that can be used to personalize your book covers. You can also use wrapping paper, stickers, Posca pens, or Sharpies to add drawings and designs. For a more robust cover, you can add a layer of coloured card after covering your book with sticky back plastic. This allows you to create a collage of colours or a unique pattern.
When it comes to protecting your books, you can choose between clear, sticky-backed plastic or a pre-made plastic cover. Clear sticky-backed plastic gives you the flexibility to customise your book cover while also providing a protective layer. On the other hand, a pre-made plastic cover, such as those offered by Brodart.com, can be a convenient option if you prefer a ready-made solution.
Additionally, if you're looking to cover a paperback book, it's important to ensure that the plastic wrapping is slightly larger than the book cover. This allows for enough material to wrap around the front and back covers and provides a neat finish. You can find plastic wrapping in office supply, craft stores, or online.
Lastly, if you're aiming for a more professional finish, consider using a product like Goo-Gone to ensure your book is free of any glue residue before applying the sticky back plastic. This will help you achieve a smooth and seamless result.
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Preparing the plastic
Firstly, select a flat work area and lay out your roll of contact paper with the paper side facing up. Contact paper, also known as sticky-back plastic, comes in rolls and can be purchased from office supply stores, craft stores, or online. This paper-backed adhesive film will protect your school books and keep them looking neat.
Now, carefully measure the size of the book you want to cover. Place the book 2 inches (5.1 cm) from the end of the contact paper and roll it out flat. Ensure there is enough plastic wrapping to cover the book by allowing for a margin of 4 inches (10 cm) longer than the book cover. This extra length will be used to wrap the plastic around the front and back covers.
Using a sharp knife or scalpel, carefully score a line on the back of the contact paper. Make sure to only cut through the backing paper and not the plastic itself. This will allow you to easily peel back the paper to expose the sticky plastic underneath.
Peel off about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of the backing paper from one of the side corners. Be careful not to peel off too much at once, as the contact paper can stick to itself and become difficult to manage. Work your way down the side, slowly peeling off small sections of the backing paper.
Now you have prepared the plastic and exposed the sticky surface, you are ready to begin adhering the book cover to the contact paper. This process will ensure your school books are protected and personalised with your chosen plastic design.
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Applying the plastic
Now that you have the plastic wrapping cut to size, it's time to apply it to your school book. If you are using contact paper, start by peeling off 1 inch (2.5 cm) of the backing paper from the side of the plastic layer. Be careful not to peel off more than 1 inch, as the contact paper will be difficult to work with and may stick to itself.
Next, line up the book where the backing paper and contact paper meet, and press the book cover onto the contact paper. Make sure the book cover is straight, otherwise your measurements will be off. If you need to adjust, peel the book off and press it down again to straighten it out. Work out any air bubbles under the plastic by pressing your hand down along the book cover.
Now, peel the backing paper off while pressing the contact paper down. With the contact paper sticking to one side of the book cover, flip the book over and hold the cover down with one hand. With your other hand, slowly pull the backing paper to peel it off. At the same time, use your hand to press the contact paper down onto the book cover.
If you are using non-adhesive plastic wrap, you will need to tape it down. Start by laying the book in the centre of the plastic sheet, leaving 2 inches (5.1 cm) of plastic wrap on the top and bottom of the book. Then, wrap the plastic around the book, making sure to leave enough to wrap underneath the front and back covers. Finally, tape the plastic down securely, and smooth out any air pockets before you open the book and fold in the edges.
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Adding decorations
Washi Tape
Washi tape comes in a variety of colours and patterns, including solid colours like green, pink, and blue, as well as fun patterns like stripes and bubbles. You can use this tape to create unique designs or spell out words on your book covers.
Stickers
Stickers are another easy way to add some personality to your school books. You can find stickers in various shapes, sizes, and themes to suit your interests. For example, you could use stickers of your favourite animals, flowers, or even inspirational quotes.
Drawings
If you're feeling artistic, you can use Posca pens or Sharpies to create imaginative drawings directly on your sticky-backed plastic. This could be a fun way to showcase your talent and add a personal touch to your school books.
Coloured Card
Adding a layer of coloured card underneath your sticky-backed plastic can create a more robust cover. You can use one colour or create a collage of different colours to make your books stand out.
Paper Stripes and Collages
Using stripes of paper in different colours or patterns can create a unique design on your book covers. You can also experiment with collages, using magazine cut-outs or other materials to create a fun and creative look.
Labels
Personalised name labels can be designed and printed from your computer or cut out from magazines. Adding your name to your school books is not only practical but can also be a fun way to decorate them.
Remember, covering your school books with sticky-back plastic is a chance to showcase your style and creativity. Have fun with it and don't be afraid to experiment with different decorations and techniques!
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Finishing touches
Now that you've covered your school books with sticky-back plastic, it's time to add some finishing touches to make them stand out and express your individuality. Here are some ideas to take your book covering game to the next level:
- Washi Tape: Washi tape is a great way to add colour and pattern to your book covers. It comes in various colours, including green, pink, blue, and vibrant patterns like stripes. You can use it to create stripes, frames, or any design you like.
- Coloured Card: Adding a coloured card layer underneath the sticky-back plastic can make your book covers more robust and colourful. You can use a single colour or create a collage of different colours to make your books pop.
- Drawings and Doodles: Get creative and add some imaginative drawings or doodles to your book covers. You can use Posca pens or Sharpies to draw directly on the plastic or create removable decorations.
- Wrapping Paper: If you want to add a fun twist to your book covers, try using wrapping paper underneath the sticky-back plastic. Choose fun and colourful wrapping paper designs to make your books stand out.
- Name Labels: Create personalised name labels for your books. You can design and print them on your computer, cut them out from magazines, or use sticker letters to spell out your name.
- Pockets: Make pockets on the inside of your book covers using wrapping paper or colourful paper. This can be a handy place to store loose sheets of paper or other small items.
Remember, covering your school books with sticky-back plastic is not just practical for keeping them in good condition, but it's also a fun way to showcase your unique style and creativity. So, don't be afraid to experiment with different materials, colours, and designs to make your books truly yours.
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Frequently asked questions
Using sticky-back plastic for school books is a great way to protect them and keep them looking neat and tidy throughout the school year. It also allows students to express their individuality and unique style.
You will need sticky-back plastic, which can be purchased from office supply, craft stores, or online. You may also need coloured card, wrapping paper, stickers, and washi tape to personalise the cover.
First, measure the size of the book cover and cut the plastic to be slightly larger, leaving enough room to fold over the edges. Then, peel back a small section of the adhesive layer and stick the book cover onto the plastic, smoothing out any air bubbles. Finally, peel off the remaining backing paper and press the plastic onto the cover.
Yes, you can decorate your school books with imaginative drawings using colourful pens or markers. You can also use washi tape, stripes of paper, or create collages to add a personal touch to your book covers.
