Friday, November 5, 2010

How to Make a Book with a Secret Compartment

My nephew just turned 9-years-old, and I thought this craft would make the perfect gift.  He is very clever, has two younger siblings, and is always looking for ways to keep his "science experiments" and special things secure. Besides, doesn't every kid need a secret compartment book? 

I first saw this craft on a TV show, and can't, unfortunately, remember the name of the show or the crafter who designed it.  Sorry! 

*Disclaimer: This is NOT an original idea!*


Being one of the young, newlywed couples of America that doesn't own a VHS, I started my search for these items at our local Goodwill.  I was excited to see a  basket of VHS tapes being sold. I picked out a good one (not that it matters), and took a chance that they would also have a book I could use. I planned on searching for a beautiful book at an antique store, but got lucky to find an entire section of our Goodwill on hardcover books! I'm so glad shopping for these items was quick, easy, and inexpensive.

Notice that the book I chose to make into a secret compartment was titled A House of Secrets. I think it is so appropriate, and I'm sure my nephew will love that! 


Materials
  • 1 vintage (or simply cool-looking) hard-cover book without the cover
    • TIP: Try to find a book that is just larger in thickness, width, and height of the VHS case, so it will fit snuggly inside. 
  • 1 VHS case
  • Hot glue gun
  • X-acto knife
Directions:

    1. Using the X-acto knife, cut the pages away from the book cover, leaving the cover intact. 


       2. Tear the protective cover sheet off the VHS case


       3. Hot glue the VHS case to the spine of the book cover
       4. Hot glue the VHS sides to the flaps of the book cover


    This is what it should look like now that the VHS case is attached:


      5. Add your treasures and enjoy!


    Hope you enjoy this simple craft. I think I'll make a few more for the other kids in my family!

    Remember: The world is yours to personalize. Empower your inner designer! 
    Love,
    Susannah











    6 comments:

    1. So fun and creative! Thanks for sharing this idea, I can't wait to try it!

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    2. Love this and so will your nephew. Using the VHS plastic framework is genius, I have to try this. I love "secret" book storage. Kudos!

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    3. What a great idea! I've noticed that you can buy VHS tapes really cheaply at Goodwill.

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    4. Thank you! It turned out wonderfully, and was SO EASY! My nephew did like it, although a little of the excitement was lost because I included the VHS with the book. At first he thought it was just a fancy movie holder! Oops.

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    5. My 8 year old son will love this. Thanks!!

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    6. Very clever! I love it. Thanks for the tutorial.

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