Sometimes I get on a kick with finding certain vintage items. My new kick is vintage books. They are easy to find and inexpensive which for me is win/win. There are lots of tutorials on crafting with books and book pages that are a lot of fun.
But I also just like the look, feel and smell of books. Maybe because you just don’t get that when reading on the iPad.
(Restoration Hardware)
Books are a great decorating tool. Stack ‘em, pile them up. Fill a basket with them. The more the better. They don’t just belong on the bookshelf! The best places to find vintage books is at an estate sale. Some people never get rid of things and there is a whole generation that bought books in hardcover back in the day. If you can get them for $1 or 2 each you are getting a great deal.
Books are fantastic in decorating because they add texture. I enjoy making small vignettes around my house when I decorate. And books are great for stacking and adding height where you need it.
I am sure someone will find this an absolute sin, but I cut the hardcovers off my books and wrap them in twine. Trust me these are not first edition, worth something books. I just love the look of the raw edges.
And the color of the pages of old books when stacked together becomes a neutral backdrop for anything else you might want to display.
Try stacking up some books and then add some objects of curiosity. A pair of binoculars, candles, vases, sea shells or coral are great additions to a stack of books. Anything that you want to display looks better surrounded by books.
Vintage books also have a story to tell (no pun intended). I love it when someone has written in their book. Penmanship just isn’t the same as it used to be. Plus, it can give you a glimpse into someone’s life. I recently found an appointment book from 1954 that belonged to a physician. I have to tell you I read every entry with fascination. His day was filled with collecting data and clinical trials related to curing polio.
Can you imagine if 50 years from now someone collects your daily planner and reads it with such fascination? I am sure they would be really interested in my to do list!
I’m Linking Up!
chiccalifornia
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Love this!!! Sharing at my party later today. Thanks for sharing at Redouxinteriors