Mini Books Tutorial

How I Make My Mini Books!

I’ve been making mini books for over a year now, and I feel like I’ve really perfected my process. So I wanted to share a tutorial here on my blog.

These are super versatile. You can make a TBR jar, a cute mini bookshelf, earrings, keychains, a shadowbox, and more. Personally, I love making and decorating my mini bookcases with them. It’s such a fun way to look back at the books you’ve read recently.

Step 1: Open Your Template

Open your template in Canva. I have a template available in my shop as a digital download.

Start by selecting the books you want to make. Most of the time, you can find clear cover images by searching on Google or looking on Amazon.

Step 2: Add the Covers

Copy and paste the cover photos into the template. They should snap right into place.

Step 3: Match the Spine

Next, try your best to match the cover photo to the spine color. You can use the eyedropper tool in Canva to get an exact match.

Match the title font as closely as you can for the spine. It doesn’t have to be perfect — just close enough to capture the look.

Step 4: Choose Your Size

There are three book sizes included in the template. Make sure your books are sized the way you want them before printing.

Step 5: Print

Once your template is complete, print it out. You can use regular paper, cardstock, or sticker paper. I personally use sticker paper.

Step 6: Cut & Attach

Cut out the book covers and match them to your mini book blanks. I sell 1:12 scale mini book blanks in my shop.

If you’re gluing your covers, use a very small amount of superglue. I recommend holding the covers in place with a clothespin while they dry to help keep their shape.

And you’re done!

Set up your mini bookshelf with your books and decorate it with adorable accessories. The mini bookshelf and accessories are also available in my shop. I have a variety of styles including a library cart in my shop.

For a video tutorial, check out my TikTok post.

Here are some fun ways you can use your mini books:

– TBR jar (write book titles on the spines and pull one at random)

– Mini bookshelf of your recent reads

– Genre-themed mini shelves (fantasy, romance, thriller, etc.)

– Booktok-inspired display

– Shadowbox of your favorite series

– Dollhouse library (1:12 scale)

– Earrings or charm jewelry

– Keychains

– Reading tracker display

– “Year in Books” mini shelf

– Book club memory shelf

– Gift topper for book lovers

Here are some examples of mini bookshelves I’ve made: