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We’ve Got You Covered

Covering textbooks does more than keep dust, dirt and grime off and help preserve the pages for future use, it also provides a blank canvas for self-expression. An inexpensive and easy cover can be fashioned in a matter of minutes with a little bit of paper and a pair of scissors. Using the following instructions, guide youngsters' hands for the initial wrapping and then let students personalize with classroom-appropriate decor while making sure textbooks are distinguishable for each subject or class.

Supplies
Newspaper/large paper bag/craft paper larger than textbook
Ruler (not necessary, but helpful)
Scissors
Textbook
Stickers, markers and other decorative items (optional)

Instructions

STEP 1: Lay paper out and place opened textbook in center of paper, being sure paper covers books with two inches of excess on all sides. Trim paper if necessary.

STEP 2: Fold paper edges along the top and bottom of the book to create creases.
Set textbook aside and fold the top and bottom edges of the paper along the crease.

STEP 3: Close the textbook cover and place it back in the center of the folded paper. Fold paper over the front cover of the textbook and crease the paper along the edge of the book before completely folding along the crease.

Repeat step 3 with the back cover.

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STEP 4: Working one side at a time, slip the textbook cover into the folds of the paper to secure it around the textbook – if a little extra security is wanted, tape the paper to seal the edges.

Decorate textbook covering with stickers, markers or other decorative items – be sure to include the subject or class along the front and spine!

BONUS: To create a small cover pocket, repeat the covering process with a piece of paper that is half the height of the textbook.

This article was originally published in the July 30, 2017, print edition of Back to School. Contact the editor, Jamie Gonzales, with questions or comments: jgonzales@alaskadispatch.com.

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