Do you want to keep your favorite hardback books from getting spoiled? Or have an old book that needs fixing? Protect your hardback book so that it will last for years by creating a protective cover. Clear plastic film can keep your book in good condition with the cover still visible.
Step
Step 1. Cut a sheet of plastic film the width of the book cover plus 5 cm to each side
Make sure you use acid-free plastic.
Step 2. Fold the plastic film in half and press the crease line
Step 3. Cut the paper on the back of the plastic film along the center crease line
Be careful when cutting the paper, not to cut the plastic film!
Step 4. Fold the paper away from the center line of the plastic film
Fold the width of the spine of the book.
Step 5. Place the plastic film face up with the center exposed
Step 6. Place the spine exactly in the middle of the crease line and press so that the plastic adheres to the book
Step 7. Lift the book (with the plastic film already glued on) and press the plastic along the spine to remove any air bubbles and ensure the plastic adheres well
Step 8. Gently press the plastic film against the edges of the spine to adhere it to the edges and remove any air bubbles
Step 9. Press firmly using a hard straight object such as a ruler, then glue the plastic film onto the cover of the book while gently peeling the protective paper off
That way, the sticky plastic surface will only open about 2.5 and this will prevent mistakes when gluing the book cover.
Step 10. Cut the corners of the plastic film to form a triangle right at the corner of the book
Cut the plastic film as close to the corner of the book as possible, but don't let it touch the cover.
Step 11. Fold the end of the plastic film along the edge of the book inward and press it firmly against the inside of the book cover
Note: Do not leave air “tunnels” at the edges of the folds. The plastic film should be in tension while being pressed firmly against the edges and against the back of the book cover. This technique is especially important for paperback books, as even tiny air "tunnels" will cause the edges of your book to wear out over time. Small air pockets can be deflated with a needle or similar sharp object to remove excess air
Step 12. Repeat the same steps on the back cover of the book
Step 13. The top and bottom edges of the book can be covered in the same steps, except for the back of the book
Step 14. Cut the plastic film on the top and bottom of the spine to form a triangle because you can't fold it
Step 15. Cut the remaining plastic as close to the edge of the spine as possible
Step 16. Fold the remaining plastic on the top and bottom onto the inside of the book cover
(The same caveats about aerial “tunnels” apply to this section as well.)
Tips
- You need to know, covering books with plastic film will permanently reduce or damage the value of books for collectors. This envelope cannot be opened again. So make sure you really want to cover the book with this material.
- If you're doing this method on a new book and want to give it to someone, it makes a great gift.
- Covering with plastic film is especially useful if you don't want the book to get wet and wet, such as a recipe book.
- This cover will keep the book clean and comfortable to hold. Try!
