I often talk about the practical ways you can use your handmade books, but a question I’m frequently asked is, “How can I show them off?” Simply put, handmade journals are just too pretty to be hidden away in some dusty cabinet or drawer. They’re works of art, each one unique, and they deserve to be showcased!
I consulted our Handmade Book Club community to find out how they like to display their beautiful bindings, and they shared some wonderfully clever ideas. Read on for some eye-catching inspiration on how to show off those hand-bound books!
Stack them
Stacking your books can be a fantastic way to display them, even in the tightest of spaces. Whether on a coffee table, nightstand, or windowsill, think of areas where you could fill the space with some height. Club member Beth Pelham recently shared this stunning stack on our Instagram page. Be sure to check out her IG post to see a really fun video!!
Use a shadow or curio box
Curio or shadow boxes allow you to create an artful display that doubles as decor. Alternate between upright and angled books to create a natural, effortless look. Play around with it—let the books stack in a way that feels relaxed. I’m completely smitten with this display, shared by Dorothy Walker.
Barbara created her own shadow box from a salvaged cabinet door! She added her own shelves and backing.
Vintage wooden crates and cubbies
Similar to a curio box, vintage crates and cubbies offer a wonderful solution for handmade book displays, like these examples shared by Diana.
Floating shelves and baskets
Floating shelves are a great way to create a clean, minimalist display. Books can be arranged horizontally or vertically to suit your style and the available wall space. Check out this gorgeous setup by Janice. I love her display of accordion books!
Club member Michelle Thompson recently renovated her studio which led to some extra wall space, so she incorporated both floating shelves and baskets.
Use a good ole’ bookcase
Of course, there’s nothing quite so striking as a bookcase full of colorful books! Feast your eyes on these displays by Dorothy Walker and Mikki Soliday.
Handmade books & photo by Dorothy Walker
If you really want to jazz up your bookcase, consider Denise’s idea! She added square geometric sticky tiles on the back of a repurposed bookcase to give it some character. She also incorporated a Book Nook kit of a greenhouse that lights up to give the shelf some warmth.
Creative shelving
Cheryl needed a way to display her books in a small limited space. These ENHET metal bathroom shelves with rail and hooks from Ikea worked beautifully.
Handmade books and photos by Cheryl Whittle
Leslee had initially designed this wooden bookshelf to hold her daughter’s Beanie Baby collection. She has since repurposed it to contain her lovely handmade books,
Ellie made clever use of this tall, narrow tiered stand.
Mix the arrangement
Handmade books are often displayed spine-out, but combining a mixed arrangement of front-facing and open layouts can add depth and intrigue. I absolutely love this corner shelf display in the studio of club member Rose James.
Handmade books and photo by Rose James
Arrange by color
Once you’ve compiled quite a collection of handmade journals, you can group colors together to complement the aesthetic in a room, or to reflect a season.
Other unique ideas
Here are a few ideas I’ve gathered from Pinterest to consider for future displays:
- Wooden step ladder
- Vintage suitcase
- Install a pipe shelf
- Vintage refrigerator
- Retro metal cart
Displaying handmade books thoughtfully can really highlight their artistry, uniqueness, and accessibility. I’d love to hear how you like to display your handmade books and journals! Drop a comment below, or tag me @vintagepagedesigns on Instagram.
HI! I’M ALI MANNING
Years ago, I learned about handmade books, and ever since then, I’ve been hooked. I love creating new designs, learning about different techniques, and expanding my collection of paper. But what I love most about bookmaking is the community.
Through Vintage Page Designs and the Handmade Book Club, I’ve met thousands of other passionate bookmakers, mixed-media artists, and crafters. We all share a love of book arts and crafting, just for the joy of it.
I believe that bookbinding and book arts are for everyone, regardless of skill level or equipment. All you need is a little creativity and, of course, paper!
These are ALL W O N D E R F U L !!!
I’m speechless. These are all beautiful and creative!
I too am speechless. These displays are awesome!!!!!
What BEAUTIFUL books and such clever displays!