You Would Not Believe These Are Potato Printed Book Covers
I remember when I used to have to cover all of my school books in different papers and designs. I don't know how many people remember this. Also, potato printing is one of my earliest school memories and I love to do it with my children as it is quick, easy and fun.
You can use any colours that you like, you don't have to use the same as me if you don't want to. If you like the idea of potato printing, please check out my last post where I created a potato print gift wrap design.
Stuff You Need For Potato Printed Book Covers
Materials
- 2 Potatoes
- PVA Glue
- Watercolour Paints in Brick Red, Brown and Yellow Ochre
- Brown Parcel Wrapping Paper
Equipment
- Knife
- Chopping Board
- Container for PVA Glue
- Paint Brush
- Plate
- Craft Knife
- Cutting Mat
Making Stamps From Potatoes
Stage 1
Start by cutting the potatoes in half with a knife on a chopping board. Then trim down all of the edges to give each one the same square shape.
Stage 2
Next, mix PVA glue and water in equal parts, then add in a drop of the red brick watercolour paint or a colour of your choice. The texture of the mixture should be thick and sticky.
Cutting Out Potato Stamps
Stage 3
Now, spread an even coating of the paint and PVA mixture onto a plate, and dip the potato into it. This will make it much easier for you to see the design on the potato when you cut into it.
To cut, leave a square border around the edge, and divide the rest of it diagonally. You can scoop out the triangular section with a sharp knife.
Stage 4
Next, print a row of the pattern you have created along the bottom edge of the brown paper. Brown paper has both a shiny side and a matt side. The matt side is more absorbent to paint. Keep going with your potato printed book covers.
Stamping Onto Brown Paper
Stage 5
Then stamp the next row with the same stamp, but the opposite way around. This adds some variety to the design. You can rotate the stamp alternating each row to create a variation in the pattern.
Stage 6
If you wish to make a chequerboard design, leave a gap between the prints. Then get a smaller square of potato, dip into the paint, and fill in the gaps. Feel free to experiment with your own designs, patterns and colours, etc.
Potato Printed Book Covers Conclusion
It is surprising how good these potato printed book covers are. I like the rustic look and neat repetitive pattern that looks very handmade. Smart yet handmade, the perfect combination.
Give this project a go, and get your children involved. I think it will surprise you. Once you can do book covers, what else can you do?
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