Supplies Guide
Book Folding Supplies & Tools: Complete Guide
Good news: book folding doesn't require expensive equipment or specialized tools! This guide covers everything you need - from the absolute essentials to nice-to-have accessories that can make your projects easier and more enjoyable.
What You Actually Need
Here's the truth: you can start book folding with just two things - a book and a printed pattern. Everything else is optional! But a few inexpensive tools can make the process easier and your results better.
A Paperback Book
REQUIREDThe foundation of your project - choose wisely!
Printed Pattern
REQUIREDYour folding guide and instruction sheet
Bone Folder
Makes crisp, clean folds - highly recommended but not required
Optional (But Helpful) Tools
Book Stand or Easel
Display your finished piece
Rubber Bands
Keep folded pages tight while working
Ruler
Verify measurements (not needed for pattern method)
Good Lighting
See fold lines clearly and reduce eye strain
Pencil
Mark pages if you prefer (not recommended)
Choosing the Right Book
Best Book Types
- •Mass market paperbacks (4" x 7") - Perfect for small projects
- •Trade paperbacks (5" x 8" or 6" x 9") - Most versatile size
- •Older romance novels, mysteries - Usually 300-400 pages
- •Classic literature reprints - Often have nice covers
Avoid These
- •Hardcover books - Too stiff to fold properly
- •Very new books - Spine may be too tight
- •Glossy or coated pages - Don't hold creases well
- •Textbooks with thick paper - Too bulky
Where to Find Cheap Books
- •Goodwill and thrift stores ($0.50-$2)
- •Library book sales ($0.25-$1)
- •Garage sales and estate sales
- •Dollar stores (new paperbacks for $1)
💡 Pro tip: Buy multiple books when you find them cheap. Having backups means you can start new projects anytime without hunting for materials.
Budget Setups
Choose the setup that matches your commitment level and budget:
Absolute Minimum
Includes:
- • Book from thrift store ($1)
- • Print pattern at home (free)
- • Use credit card for folding
Perfect for: Trying book folding for the first time
Recommended Starter
Includes:
- • 2-3 books ($3-6)
- • Bone folder ($5-10)
- • Rubber bands ($2)
- • Print supplies
Perfect for: Creating your first few projects seriously
Enthusiast Setup
Includes:
- • 10+ practice books
- • Quality bone folder
- • Book stand for display
- • Desk lamp
- • Storage organization
Perfect for: Making book folding a regular hobby
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Buying Expensive New Books
You'll be folding (and potentially "ruining") this book. Use cheap books from thrift stores instead!
❌ Choosing Hardcovers
Hardcover spines don't flex properly for folding. Stick to paperbacks!
❌ Starting with Huge Books
800-page books take 8+ hours to fold. Start with 250-350 page books for quicker success!
❌ Forgetting to Measure First
Always measure your book's page count and height BEFORE generating your pattern!
Your First Project Shopping List
Copy this list for your first trip to the thrift store:
- 1-2 paperback books (250-500 pages each)
- Access to a printer (or print at library/print shop)
- Bone folder OR clean credit card
- Rubber bands (2-3 per project)
- Comfortable chair and good lighting
- 2-4 hours of uninterrupted time
Total estimated cost: $5-15 depending on what you already have at home
Best Books Guide
Learn exactly what makes a good book for folding projects and how to spot them at thrift stores.
Read full guide →Complete Tutorial
Step-by-step guide on how to use your supplies to create beautiful book art.
View tutorial →Free Patterns
Once you have your supplies, generate free patterns for hearts, letters, and more!
Browse patterns →Ready to Get Started?
Now that you know what supplies you need, grab a book from your shelf or hit the thrift store this weekend. With less than $10 in supplies, you can create your first piece of book art!