I have always been an avid crafter. For the past few days I have been cleaning out a room that is attached to our carport. This room used to be used as a canning kitchen. It is now used as a place to "store" things. In other words, if you don't want to throw it away, but you don't want it in the house you just stack it in this room. This room had begun to look a lot like a show called Hoarders. After I was done cleaning the room I had about a dozen wallpaper sample books and I found a shelf for them to live while I find more things to do with the beautiful papers and the book covers. I found this blog post that talks about these wonderful books. If you enjoy any form of paper crafting you need to go HERE to check it out! I have used the papers for many things including wrapping small gifts. I have also used them to mat a picture when I couldn't find just the right color.
I once used the super-strong cover to cut out a rectangle that fit the bottom of a quilted bag I had made. I slip-covered it with a matching fabric and it made a very durable bottom for the bag that I could remove and even wash the fabric cover if I needed to. I have also used the outside cover of the book to make a padded lap desk. I get together with a small group of ladies that love to make greeting cards. I can't wait to take some of these books to see if anyone has any ideas for them!
Of course the best thing about these wonderful books is the part where I get them for free! I went to one of the local stores that sells wallpaper and they put my name and number on a list. Once the books are discontinued, the store calls for me to come get whichever ones that I want. If nobody wants them they are usually just thrown away! They are great for young children to craft with also. I took some to the local head start where I used to volunteer.
Please leave me a comment if you have ever used a wallpaper sample book or have some ideas you might like to share!
