Image Source from maricimcmaster

How to Sew a Fabric Book Cover

Creating a fabric book cover is a delightful project that allows you to personalise your reading experience while protecting your books. Whether you want to wrap up a favourite novel or create a unique gift for a friend, this guide will walk you through the steps needed to sew a charming fabric book cover. Let’s gather our materials and get started!

Materials Needed

• Fabric: Choose a cotton or any lightweight fabric that you like. You will need approximately 1/2 a metre for a standard paperback book cover.
• Interfacing: Optional, for added sturdiness. Fusible interfacing works best.
• Thread: A matching or contrasting thread colour.
• Scissors: For cutting fabric.
• Measuring tape or ruler: For accurate measurements.
• Pins: To hold fabric in place.
• Sewing machine: For easier stitching (though you can sew by hand).
• Iron: To help with pressing seams.
• Chalk or fabric marker: For marking measurements.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Measure Your Book

Start by measuring the book you wish to cover. Measure the height, width, and spine width. For average paperback books, a width of approximately 15 cm and a height of about 20 cm is typical, with a spine measuring around 2.5 cm.

Step 2: Cut the Fabric

Once you have your measurements, add 5 cm to both the height and width for ease of sewing and to allow for seams. You’ll cut two pieces of fabric: one for the front and one for the back.

Example: For a book that measures 15 cm wide, 20 cm tall, and 2.5 cm spine width, you will cut two pieces of fabric measuring 20 cm wide (15 cm + 5 cm) and 25 cm tall (20 cm + 5 cm).

Step 3: Cut the Interfacing (if using)

If you opted to use interfacing for extra sturdiness, cut two pieces to the same dimensions as your fabric pieces.

Step 4: Press the Fabric

Iron your fabric pieces to remove any creases. This ensures clean, neat lines when you sew.

Step 5: Assemble the Cover

If you are using interfacing, follow these steps:

1. Place the interfacing on the wrong side of one piece of fabric and press according to the interfacing’s instructions to fuse it together.
2. Place the second fabric piece on top of the first, right sides together, aligning the edges.

Step 6: Sew the Corners

Sew around the edges, leaving a 1 cm seam allowance. Leave an opening of about 10 cm on one side to turn the fabric right side out later. Be sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of your sewing to secure your stitches.

Step 7: Trim Corners

Once you’ve sewn all the way around, trim the corners at an angle to reduce bulk when turned inside out.

Step 8: Turn the Cover Right Side Out

Through the opening you left, gently pull the fabric right side out. Use a point turner or the blunt end of scissors to push the corners out if needed.

Step 9: Press Again

Iron the cover again to ensure all seams are flat and sharp. This step is crucial to achieve a professional finish.

Step 10: Stitch the Opening Closed

Fold in the edges of the opening you left to the inside. Pin the edges to hold them in place and sew a straight stitch close to the edge to close the gap.

Step 11: Insert the Book

Finally, insert your book into the cover. Depending on how snug you want the fit, you may want to add elastic or a button closure, but this is entirely optional.

Personalisation Ideas

Now that you’ve mastered the basics, consider personalising your fabric book cover. You could:

• Add pockets to hold bookmarks or notes.
• Embroider or applique designs on the cover.
• Use printed fabric for a unique flair.
• Create a matching bookmark using leftover fabric.

Conclusion

Sewing your own fabric book cover is a rewarding project that reflects your personality and style. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sewist, this simple guide should inspire you to create beautiful, protective coverings for your cherished books. Happy sewing!