How to repurpose a novel into an Art Journal

I'm about to start a new mixed media playlist at the request of my subscribers to show my process when creating mixed media art journal pages. This is the video that shows how I altered an existing book to be an art journal.
In the first video of me creating an art page I'll explain the finishing touches I completed after filming this initial video.
I hope you'll join me on this mixed media journey an exploration of creativity.
Happy Crafting
Ceri
Ceri The Crafter on Etsy www.etsy.com/uk/shop/CeriTheC...
FaceBook @Ceri The Crafter
FaceBook @Ceri The Cake
Website www.cerigriffithscreativedesi...

[@danielle7061]

I’ve been watching all your videos like a marathon and it’s my favorite thing right now

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you

[@jennyfaith6155]

Same❤

[@rital3406]

l've watched a lot of repurposing book videos, but this is my favorite! Your instructions and process was clear and concise, which is very inspiring. And of course your voice and accent (I'm American) is always soothing and delightful 😊 Thank you for providing so many creative videos!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Glad it was helpful

[@nicolinavincelli9369]

Ceri, I rewatched both the videos, now it makes senses to me. That journal is a gem. Just love your creations, thank you for sharing, enjoy your day.

[@mandyofmarymac]

Ceri~I've been making journals for years now, and somehow they never turned out as I would have liked. But, now I have no excuse. You've set me off on the right path. Thank you so very much for your calm guidance.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Wonderful.

[@danielle7061]

Beautiful ❤

[@artistgrly]

Thank you for the great tutorial. I really enjoyed learning how to make a book look professional.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you

[@user-ov8sh4nt6i]

I absolutely love your lessons. I have tried a few now, but have a lot more to go. Thank you.

[@francem9330]

Thank you very much..now i start my old book❤🎉🎉❤

[@weaver7249]

you never cease to amaze me.

[@DarcysMixedMedia]

Thanks for sharing your process. I'm excited about this series. Hi & hugs to you and Biscuit

[@CeriGriffiths]

So am I but nervous at the same time as I don’t normally film my art journaling only my collage.

[@DarcysMixedMedia]

Just be you and you'll be great because you are. :)

[@mariapatriciachavez214]

great ❤😮

[@lisamorales3914]

I like straight and clean books. Very tidy.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Me too, I’m a minimalist at heart I feel.

[@debbeneman9792]

Thank You for this video. I love how well you explain the process of what you're doing. So many times I've watched a video & went to do it & then come across a part that wasn't explained then however I wind up doing it doesn't look as nice. You're an excellent instructor. I really appreciate that.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you Deb.

[@lalagamma4452]

Thanks for sharing your time, talents and processes. Very interesting to see it and hear you explain why you do things in a certain way. Looking forward to the playlist. TY Ceri!!💕Namaste🐞🥰

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you

[@fairyGrandmother]

Hey Ceri! Your book turned out beautiful! I can never get those pages as flat as yours are! TFS Hugs!

[@CeriGriffiths]

A lot of that depends on the quality of the paper, this was a reference book and the page were a little thicker than a novel.

[@jsbowles5990]

Ceri, you are an absolute genius. I truly enjoy every video you make. In process I learn so many new to me things. I also watch a lot of your friend, Gayle Agostenelli. No wonder you two were fast friends. Love from Georgia USA. Judy

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you Judy.

[@carolynwalker2135]

Hi Ceri. At long last I have taken the plunge and repurposed a book into an art journal. A first for me. I used two gel prints I made several years ago; one for the front and back covers, the other to cover the spine. So pleased with the result. Thanks so much for your inspiration and step by step instructions

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you for being brave.

[@waukonstandard]

I am so glad I found you! I love how informative and easy to watch your videos are. Thanks so much for taking the time to share your knowledge and talent!

[@CeriGriffiths]

You’re welcome Laurie.

[@DebbieSparrow]

That forst book is wonderful.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you

[@bridgettebaylis1819]

Thank you for sharing how to make an art journal. I have used the Readers Digest Plant Encyclopedia, I have had it for years and never read it. I'm glad I was able to finally use it. It is quite a big book. I will be kept busy filling it and enjoy filling it too. Thank you so much.....😃😃😃

[@CeriGriffiths]

Wonderful have fun.

[@babawawa1953]

As always;thank you for a wonderful video. So much great information. I’m inspired!!

[@CeriGriffiths]

You are so welcome!

[@debbiebrowne1821]

Informative clear instruction 👍 Lovely papers 💗👍xx

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you

[@CherrySignature3]

Love it

[@stargater2892]

Your instructions are so spot on. I am a beginner. My book had around 700 pages, and I'm left with around 110. Im so grateful, you mentioned how many glue sticks you used. It was a light bulb moment for me -- i have -- excuse me (I had) glue sticks with every project, every drawer, etc. I rounded every one up, used them and had to open a new one. Mine are 7 grams. Washi step is next. (I'm watching again, 4th-5th time IDK). Caught it this time, use the bigger Washi. I'm glad I watched again. Hopefuloiy, this isn't too much info for you. My goal is to truly show my appreciation. I'm using my journal to play with all the things I've bought taking up space. 1. Use opened glue sticks. (🎉 2. Use Washi proactively. (Im embarrassed by the number of rolls I have.) 3. Learn to use the paper, stickers, & Washi in my Ceri inspired Journal.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Have fun with it I’ve since noticed that if I use to many mediums on the pages it can bulk up quickly and the spine can be over stressed, so be careful not to bulk it out to much.

[@nancivessells1909]

Thanks for sharing that process. I like that at tape! I get tired of all the glue stick stuff. I haven't seen this process but like this one.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Poohtle]

I love repurposing old books for art journals and have recently decided I’m only going to scrapbook in old ‘ coffee table’ books too.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Great idea.

[@WilmaVoermans]

First of all, I love your videos. I normally never look long videos. I get bored very quick. But with your videos I like the things you tell, your English accent , and I am afraid I miss something when I skip parts. :) I used to glue the pages, but I dont do anymore. My gluesticks cost 5 Swiss Franc ( about 4 pounds) x 3 , too much for me to spend before I begin a journal.. So now I make my mixed media pages separate and than glue it on a single page. No bulk Most pages will be covered with just paper collage anyway Or I buy a nice MM journal for that 12 Pound and alter it on the go. . The gluestick I use is Tombow mono Professional glue stick. It is SO good, no buckling , and even after many years it sticks very strong. And I am addicted to the smell. After a long surching way finding the best and cheapest liquid glue : collall all purpose glue! It sticks everything , paper , fabric, etc. And it costs almost nothing here in Switzerland. Well , long story, and I think you know most of it already, Bye bye, have a great week!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you Wilma all good things to know, I too am going to stop gluing pages together in the future as they become to thick and heavy I'm going to switch to a MM journal when i'm finished with this one. Ive tried Collall however the fumes cause me to cough, I must be sensitive to them.

[@fazestorm4441]

I love it

[@chuckkolb1270]

Excellent instructional video: clarity with organization.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@mayaholthuizen5307]

Thanks. I start my first book, and found a childrens book, with hardcover pages. But if I go on with this kind of journals, your way as explained, I will follow. Meanwhile I know, you give us options which last for long times. That's what I like too.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Wonderful, thank you

[@iamsuzzie]

How fascinating< Thank you for sharing how to prepare a book for a art journal.

[@CeriGriffiths]

You’re welcome.

[@barbarahart2024]

Fantastic video. Just what I was looking for. So neat and tidy.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Glad you liked it Barbara.

[@hazelanakadesign7071]

I love this. It's my second viewing because today I'm happily gluing while listening to you. Excited for the rest of the playlist,. Thanks, Hazel

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you Hazel and welcome

[@wendyzilli9735]

Love it Ceri! Great job⭐️ Your explanations are perfect!!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you

[@vivilovespaper]

Thank you for doing this altered art book series. I have been waiting for a video playlist like this. I’m new to your channel and am enjoying everything.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you and welcome.

[@kaylinfrancis8751]

I love the paper that you used on the cover. Thank you for sharing your process.

[@CeriGriffiths]

You’re welcome.

[@laurettechandlerthevintage3022]

Love the way you did this, great idea! 😊🌸😊

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you

[@Melinda-S]

I've been wondering how to do something like this. Thank you!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you, there are other ways so I recommend searching and watching a few others to enhance your knowledge there may be another way which suits you better.

[@Dana-fn5zt]

Ceri!! Thank you for such a thorough tutorial on how to take an old book and make it into an art journal. The corners always scare me but now that I saw how to do it I can move forward on mine. Looking forward to this playlist. (I love your collage book.) TY 💕

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you

[@pamelahedley4649]

Love watching your process Ceri. You are an inspiration for me. Thank you so much.

[@CeriGriffiths]

You’re welcome Pamela.

[@lindapark8467]

Thanks so much for sharing your process!

[@CeriGriffiths]

You’re welcome.

[@lindaroberts2282]

Oh this is going to be an exciting series; on my watch list for sure!🍂😊🍁

[@CeriGriffiths]

Lol. Thank you

[@JannyHaak]

Great series to follow! Thanks for sharing, Ceri! 👍

[@CeriGriffiths]

You’re welcome.

[@vetechgrl2000]

What a fun video! I'm so happy I found your channel. Thank you do much for the tutorial!!

[@CeriGriffiths]

You’re welcome.

[@heatherparry3159]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and process I learned a lot. Thanks!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Glad it was helpful!

[@charlottebeseke5596]

You are a very good teacher!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you

[@scrapbagstudios]

I think I use a slightly different formula for each book I alter. The book itself seems to know what it needs. Thanks for sharing.

[@CeriGriffiths]

So true

[@debbiev.1311]

Great instruction...really like your tips for the corners!! Looking forward to seeing what you create in this journal(playlist)!! Thank you, Ceri!! 👨🏻‍🎨😊❣

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you

[@DebbieSparrow]

Please teach us some pages from the first book you showed. Omgoodness 💗 that was gorgeous 😍

[@CeriGriffiths]

Debbie I’ll have to watch this video to see which images your referring to.

[@kareyroberts7478]

Looking forward to this playlist Ceri. Thanks for sharing 😊

[@CeriGriffiths]

You’re welcome.

[@stinsol1]

I thoroughly enjoyed this introduction to your new playlist. Can't wait to see the progress. I've been creating altered books for about 4 years. Your process is a little different from mine, so I will be trying some new things as I go on the journey with you. Thanks for sharing. I enjoy your tutorials.

[@CeriGriffiths]

If your method works for you then don’t change however if an element of my method speeds you up or improves upon your technique then you’re welcome to use it, were all continually learning and we usually learn from others. Enjoy your journey.

[@rochestermanagementservice6082]

Gorgeous, Ceri! Solid technique and lovely choice of cover paper. Can't wait to see your next video on this topic! TFS. From Cheryl in AZ, USA

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you

[@babawawa1953]

Love your videos. I’m nowhere near as clever and talented as you but your videos and wonderful explanations give me great hope that my projects will improve. Thank you very much. I hope we will see you working on this repurposed book and what you create. (Possibly you already have and I need to keep searching). Thanks again. Have a beautiful 2024.

[@gayleagostinelli_ct]

Such fun, Ceri! I’m going to love this series of videos! Thank you for sharing this, my friend! Love and hugs to you! ❤️

[@CeriGriffiths]

Love always.

[@thehouseofjane]

Hi Ceri...found your channel today & I'm really enjoying your videos. Thanks for explaining everything.

[@CeriGriffiths]

You’re welcome and I’m pleased you like my offerings.

[@alicenenigar843]

What a great video. I’ve been wanting to know how to do something like this. I enjoy your channel, you are such a great teacher. Thank you

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you Alice.

[@michelleanne9530]

Great teacher!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you

[@debrapryor5350]

Thank you so much that was very helpful

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you

[@YooperGranny]

wonderful

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you Joan, Gayle Agostinelli also does videos on repurposing books so those would be worth a watch as well if you’re considering making one of these, Gayle does it slightly different and makes it more of a journal.

[@genevievelimozin4714]

Very informative thank you.

[@CeriGriffiths]

You’re welcome

[@SouthernPrincess]

Love it!! thank you so much for the tutorial on this. gave me so many ideas. Now to find a book I can do this with! Fingers crossed I find one at goodwill or second hand store :)

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you.........look at recipe books they’re normally hard wearing and of a good size.

[@SouthernPrincess]

@@CeriGriffiths ah. I will look for those. I found a few Sunday but none that called to me but I will keep my eye open for sure.

[@julietierney2516]

Double sided tape...who knew???? The things I learn here!

[@aliceadler4569]

Hi, Ceri!!! It’s Alice, your new subscriber!!! Really enjoyed your video!!! Thank you!!! 🥰🥰🥰

[@CeriGriffiths]

You’re welcome

[@differenttakethanmost]

Love your vids (have been binge watching for days & days)- you’re fantastic and I really enjoy your style. I’m learning all kinds of great tips n tricks from you 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼 thank you 😊 Could listen to you talk all day -till’ “modge podge”- here @36:49 (and repeatedly in many videos) then it’s like the needle scratches across the record or fingernails down a chalkboard - 😖 Perhaps it’s the English teacher and writer in me. Maybe it’s my own bit of “OCD”-Please allow me to offer this: It’s “Mod”. Mod. M O D Podge. Imagine if you were at a cake decorating class and the instructor kept calling it “fondue” instead of “fondant”... It’s right there- printed clearly and boldly on a bright white and yellow background: Mod Podge 😉🤓

[@CeriGriffiths]

Lol....I know I’m sorry I know it’s Mod podge but my brain just kicks into gear and then my names get all mixed up, I’ll try and do it better next time.

[@cinziagirelli7939]

thanks for this tutorial. I have always had difficulty with corners..not anymore ! I also used to use a fabric glue on the cover however sometimes i had bumps so the double sided tape will be used henceforth. thanks again :)

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you

[@heathersherlock]

Hi Ceri, Thank you for this. A great start to the 2022 Journal Project, and it was very informative and useful. I'm looking forward to following its progress. FYI, if it matters, 🙂 50pence is approx 90 Australian cents at todays conversion rate. Cheers from Downunder.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you and hello downunder, I lived in Sydney for a few years, I love Australia .

[@louiseharper7850]

Ceri, Icer!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Not sure what this means?

[@artnotesstudio1542]

I'm always surprised how quickly the glue sticks are used up. Glue sticks must be the one supply I keep buying and buying, because they dissapear so quickly! Thank you for the tutorial, I will use your tips for sure, I still have lots to learn... I'm sort of a beginner in journalling and glue-booking. 😊

[@CeriGriffiths]

Hi and welcome, I do know you can buy glue sticks in longer lengths if they would help.

[@a7sizegirlamandabouchard760]

Have you thought about using the My Sweet Petunia's Glue Press - put Art Glitter Glue in it and then NEVER have to worry about putting the top on it immediately again. I love mine

[@CeriGriffiths]

I’ll have to look that up Ive never heard of it.

[@faodail3913]

I use sheets of silicone baking paper (over and over) to separate drying sheets etc and weigh them down under a stack of books.. Stops stuff sticking together, simple quick and easy.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you I sometimes use freezer or baking paper if I’ve got an issue with sticking pages but that doesn’t seem to happen to often for me.

[@faodail3913]

@@CeriGriffiths Like the others ave said on here, I really appreciate this careful tutorial which shows ALL the little hints and tips. Thank you. I have subscribed!

[@vaundamacpherson5727]

So neat and tidy. Is there a followup video to see how you decorated the pages?

[@CeriGriffiths]

You might find some in this playlist. kzbin.info/aero/PL9jo60Ix0S8LOu1hu29YzkGolb3Tf8yxl&si=COEkk8hD3X4eqtrM

[@jillcrapo7159]

Hi Ceri- I really enjoy your instruction and art sharing! Thank you so much. I have watched you and several other making these beautiful journals. I am confused however, as to what you do with them after you finish decorating them…. Do you cover up your artwork with pictures and journaling as you would for a photo album, or write in them? Would you be willing to show what you do with your “junk” journals upon total completion??? It seems like you go through so much work and time to make these, but then to do “what” with them when you are through…. I’m just confused as to how they are used…. Thank you so much I. Advance for helping me to understand. Sincerely,

[@CeriGriffiths]

Hello Jill, the topic of journals and journaling is so wide its hard to pin down one answer for you. Some people collect journals and never write in them and therefore the overly decorated journals become collectors pieces or are created to hand down through the family. I believe a journal should be used because without someone’s handwriting and memories then its just a book and not a true journal (personal opinion), you will find that most journal makers will create journal pages where there are places to write, sometimes not in a conventional way but space all the same, they also included ephemera where things can be written upon. I personally decorate a journal just enough so that it takes on a theme or personality and then leave enough room for writing and possible further decoration by the new owner. As I said its a wide topic and the journaller and journal makers all have personal views of what a journal is and how it should be use but thats the joy of the art form, there are no rules.

[@mariapatriciachavez214]

❤❤❤❤🎉

[@retroshopper1]

you can use a stapler if your in a hurry instead of glue sticks to bind the pages together.

[@shellywilliamswilliamscomp783]

Ceri, you are BEAUTIFUL. I have had a problem cutting the corners like this in covering my journals and had yet to find someone to show how close to cut the material or paper. Sherri the posh paper lady tried to explain it but I couldn't grasp it until now. What is PVA glue?

[@CeriGriffiths]

Thank you, PVA glue for me is a white glue, some call it tacky glue, you can get it in most craft stores and I think it even glues wood, it has the consistency similar to runny honey. I believe in the states it might be called Elmers Glue. Hope that helps.

[@Cindykm70]

Hello Ceri, I love your channel and I am so enjoy everything you do. Now this is an honest question, when you use the washi tape to seal in the spine crease and then cover with book page, if you don’t like the washi, could you just skip the washi part ? Wouldn’t using just the book page work to seal anything seeping into the spine? That way it’s one process and not as much bulk.

[@CeriGriffiths]

Cindy you are correct one or the other would do, sometimes I use washi if I was adding visual interest, sometimes I use matching book pages if I wish to disguise the join. For me it’s an important thing to try and stop any wet mediums making their way into the binding of the spine. Which ever I use I then paint it with either gesso or modge pog to waterproof the join a little.

[@dianemosher3213]

Love it❤️what is the name of the decorative paper? Thx

[@CeriGriffiths]

Diane, the craft pad is called Vintage Diary, a signature collection by Sara Davies from Crafters Companion.

[@Whole180withAliyah]

6:50 I am a complete noob & I'm wondering if it might be possible to glue the pages in such a way as to leave a pocket opening, either on the top or side, to insert something of interest later? Is that possible, or would it interfere with the integrity of the pages? Thanks so much for all of your instruction, Ceri. I am learning so much, binge-watching your videos. Cheers!

[@CeriGriffiths]

Yes that can be done, if you search Gayle Agostinelli altered book on KZbin you should come up with some videos, Gayle very often does exactly what you’ve just mentioned and has lots of hints and tips about how to get the best results.

[@Whole180withAliyah]

@@CeriGriffiths Terrific. Thank you so much. Cheers for a lovely day!

[@peggystark4833]

Grab some wax paper from a dollar tree , or walmart... to use between each set of glue pages so the glue pages won't stick together, just an idea or preference.

[@CeriGriffiths]

You’re right, after doing this video I got a roll of freezer paper and did exactly as you suggested.

[@luvbears7492]

Hi Ceri, if you were going to cover the spine or even the whole cover with old denim, would you use fabric glue or will the wide double side tape work?

[@CeriGriffiths]

I’d use fabric glue.

[@luvbears7492]

Wonderful! Thanks so much.@@CeriGriffiths

[@misscheesecake1952]

Hello Mr Ceri, when tearing out pages that has been sown in does the counterpart page often fall out?

[@CeriGriffiths]

Yes, the opposite page usually drops out or easily pulls out so when I tear out a sewn page, I normally plan it so that I take out the other half of the page anyway.

[@misscheesecake1952]

@@CeriGriffiths thank u for replying. This will be my first attempt at journaling, thanks to you! I love your videos. You are a great teacher. Went to the Salvation Army and selected my old book! Gonna be replaying all your tutorials. Thank u

[@fazestorm4441]

I only wanted to say that I don't do this with paper I do them with fabric

[@CeriGriffiths]

Wonderful