Decorating with Old Books:
Simple Ways to Style Your Home with Charm and Meaning
ve always had a soft spot for old books. The worn covers, the yellowed pages, the smell of a good find from a thrift store shelf—it all makes me feel like I’m holding something with a story. And while I’ll always love reading them, I’ve come to appreciate how old books can also be beautiful tools for styling a warm and meaningful home.
When I was a new homemaker on a tight budget, I’d scout yard sales and thrift shops for hardcovers in muted tones or delicate florals, never quite sure what I’d do with them—but always knowing they’d find their place.
If you’re drawn to that old-world, lived-in charm, here are some of my favorite ways to decorate with vintage or secondhand books.
1. Stack Them for Height and Texture
Whether on a shelf, mantel, or side table, a small stack of old books adds instant character. Vary the size and colors for interest, or keep them all in soft, neutral tones for a calming look. They make perfect risers for candles, plants, or photo frames.
2. Turn the Spines to the Wall
For a more minimal or rustic look, try styling books backward—pages facing out. This lets the textures and tones of the paper become the focus, rather than mismatched titles. It’s a subtle, simple way to bring softness to your shelves.
3. Tie Them with Twine or Lace
One of my favorite things to do with a small stack of old books is to bundle them together with a bit of twine, ribbon, or even a piece of vintage lace. It turns something ordinary into something charming—perfect for a coffee table or dresser top.
4. Use the Pages Creatively
For books that are too damaged to display, give them new life by using the pages. Line drawers, frame a favorite quote, or wrap gifts in book pages. I’ve even used torn pages to create garlands or wreaths for seasonal decor.
5. Fill a Basket or Tray
A wooden tray or woven basket filled with a few well-loved books instantly feels cozy. Add a candle, a mug, or a stem of eucalyptus, and you’ve got an inviting corner that makes people want to linger.
6. Display Open Books
If a page or passage is particularly lovely, don’t be afraid to leave it open. Rest it on a stand, shelf, or your kitchen counter. Scripture pages, vintage illustrations, or poems can all become art in their own right.
There’s something special about decorating with things that already carry a bit of history. Old books remind us that beauty isn’t always new—and sometimes the most meaningful pieces are the ones found in quiet corners and dusty bins, just waiting for a second chapter.
“The wise store up knowledge…”
— Proverbs 10:14a (NIV)
What better way to honor that wisdom than by letting knowledge live on—not only in our minds, but also in the beauty of our homes?
With warmth and wonder,
Aimee
