DIY: Painted Book Stacks

  I got on the bandwagon and decided to make some of the painted book stacks that are all over Pinterest and Etsy.  However,  I wanted to make them a little different. Black is an accent color that I use all over my home to tie everything together...therefore making it feel like a cohesive space.  I often bring in black through hardware, fixtures, wall décor, and accessories.  Immediately, I knew I wanted the books to be black instead of the all white versions I had previously seen.  I also knew I wanted hardback books opposed to paperback. So let's get into this quick and inexpensive DIY.

Supplies

- Hardback or paperback books (the number is up to you)

- Acrylic paint 

- Foam brush

-Modge Podge Matte finish (optional)

-Twine

-Wood Beads

-Scissors

 I went to Dollar Tree and picked up three hardback books.  You want to make sure the books are similar in size and thickness. The books had a glossy finish.  I painted on one coat of Modge Podge in a matte finish so the paint would better adhere to the books.  This step is optional of course but I found it to be really helpful.  After the Modge Podge was dry, I painted the books with black acrylic paint.  I'm sure you can also use chalk paint but I wanted this project to be as inexpensive as possible.  After two coats of paint, the project is pretty much done. I used twine and made two tassels to create my semi beaded garland.

 To make the tassels, simply wrap the twine around your palm about 25-30 times.  Gently slide it off your hand and tie a piece of twine around the top.  Cut another piece of twine and wrap it around the tassel about 1/4 of the way down.  Tie to secure.  Finally, using scissors, cut the remaining looped end to create the fringe.  Trim to your liking. I attached one tassel to the end of a long piece of twine.  I then strung on four wood beads.  You can add more beads to your liking.  I opted to add only a few because I knew I wanted to wrap and tie the twine around the books. Add the other tassel to the end and you're all done!

Styling tips

Add stacked books to a shelf, bench, coffee table or tray.  Add greenery, a candle, a small picture frame, and unexpected accessories like vintage reading glasses to create a story within your space.