How to Make a Durable Plastic Book Cover

Libraries protect their books with plastic slip covers, but how can you get a few covers when they are available only in bulky? Well, look no further for your quick and easy substitute!

1. Obtain a heavy duty plastic sheet protector or an 8-10 mil sheet of clear plastic.
2. 

    Trim two edges of the sheet protector so that it opens up into a single layer.
   Trim two edges of the sheet protector so that it opens up into a single layer.
3. Lay your book on the plastic and trace its covers and spine. It should make a large rectangle.
4. Measure the top, bottom, and both side edges of the book.
5. Add two inches to the top and bottom measurement, and three to each side.
6. 

    Crease the top and bottom edges.
   Crease the top and bottom one inch wide flaps toward the center of the book. Press firmly to create a sharp crease.
7. 

    Fold the "flaps"
   Fold and crease the 3 inch sections on each side of the book cover in toward the spine. Press firmly to create a sharp crease.
8. 

    Tuck book cover into "pockets"
   Slide your book cover(s) into the pockets formed by the creases.
9. 

    Check for snug fit
   Close the book to check for fit.
10. 

     A small piece of tape is all it takes.
    Tape the inside and outside layers of plastic together along the book's top and bottom edges, taking care not to stick tape to the book.
11. 

     Cover the other end.
    

     Taped and ready to slide over cover edge.
    Repeat the process for the other cover with the other end of the plastic.
12. 

     Protected books.
    Read your newly protected book!

• You can use almost any type of clear tape to secure the edges of the flaps to your book.
• 3 mil plastic is too thin and will tear easily. 5 mil is the minimum necessary, and 8 or 10 mil is better. The thicker plastic drop cloths will not be perfectly clear; they will be somewhat cloudy, but you can still read a book's title through them.
• An inch is equal to 2.54 centimeters.

• Take care with any cutting tools to avoid injury.
• Saran Wrap (plastic wrap) and garbage bags will work temporarily, but are not suitable for long-term or heavy use.
• Watch out for painful paper cuts!

• 

   Needed Supplies
• Heavy duty sheet protectors (available in 10 and 25 count packages at most office supply stores or ask at school supplies)
• Tape, preferably clear
• Sharp scissors for cutting plastic