Q&A for How to Make a Hollow Book

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  • Question
    Will the edges of the paper feel different, giving it away if someone touched it?
    Community Answer
    They might. Try to keep it in a place where people are unlikely to touch it, like on a bookshelf filled with other books.
  • Question
    Where can you buy cheap old hardcover books?
    Community Answer
    Garage sales and used bookstores. Some libraries also have a bin of free books they're disposing of.
  • Question
    Can I use something other than a box cutter to cut the pages out?
    Community Answer
    Yes, but you'll need to be very careful with anything you choose. You could try scissors, but it would take a lot longer since you would have to cut the book in small sections. Make sure that anything you choose has a sharp blade.
  • Question
    What can I use to make the small holes if I don't have a drill?
    Community Answer
    You do not actually have to have the holes, but try to make the corners neat.
  • Question
    What if I don't have plastic food wrap? What works best as a substitute?
    Community Answer
    Wax paper, press & seal, or parchment paper should work. Press & Seal would stick best, but you could tape the other materials in place.
  • Question
    What about the back cover? Does it get glued to the last page?
    Community Answer
    Unless you actually glued the last page, it will not stick to the back cover.
  • Question
    I don't have a sturdy hardcover book. Is there something else I can use?
    Community Answer
    I didn't have any hardcover books either and I just used a paperback, it worked just as well.
  • Question
    Will Mod Podge work as a glue substance?
    Community Answer
    Yes, it will. Depending on your needs, it works more like a paste.
  • Question
    Do I have to use a book? Can't I use an old carton box or something?
    XxWarriorsFlowerQueenxX
    Community Answer
    If you want to use that, go ahead, but then it won't be a secret hollow book.
  • Question
    Will this work for hiding a diary from my parents?
    Community Answer
    Yes, as long as the diary fits inside the hollow book.
  • Question
    What if there is anything heavy inside which opens the book. Is there any way to close the book?
    Community Answer
    If you mean that you have hidden a large item inside of the book that will not let the book cover close, then try putting the item in the compartment in from different angles, and if that still doesn't work, try a bigger book if you are truly determined.
  • Question
    Can I use a glue stick if I have no liquid glue?
    Community Answer
    No, as stick glue isn't a liquid; it won't soak into the pages and keep them together.
  • Question
    What if all I have is Elmer's glue?
    Community Answer
    It's okay to use this brand.
  • Question
    Do I need to use the glue and plastic wrap?
    Community Answer
    Yes, you do. They are needed to make the hollow book work as it is supposed to.
  • Question
    If I want someone else to make the book, should I say it's for a friend?
    Community Answer
    Yes, or you could say you are using it for a school or work-related project.
  • Question
    Would all-purpose spray on glue work for the outside pages?
    Community Answer
    Yes, however it would be much easier if you take the time to fill a small container with it and use a brush. You can use the same glue on the inside as well.
  • Question
    Can I use a paperback book when making a hollow book?
    Community Answer
    You could, but make sure you don't cut through the back cover, because then you'll just end up with a book with a hole in it.
  • Question
    Can I use a knife to cut the pages?
    Community Answer
    You could. Be sure the blade is sharp enough.
  • Question
    Can I use Elmer's Glue when making a hollow book?
    Community Answer
    You can use liquid glue, but not stick glue.
  • Question
    I have a box that could pass as a book if painted. Can I use that?
    Community Answer
    You could, but it would be more easily discovered than a book.
  • Question
    Is multi-purpose glue okay to use?
    Community Answer
    Yes, it will work. Try making it runny by using 80% glue, 20% water, or 70-30. Too much water will warp the pages.
  • Question
    Will Elmer's school glue (or the like) work for this project?
    Community Answer
    Elmer's school glue is washable and not sturdy enough; try standard Elmer's glue.
  • Question
    What if I don't have glue?
    Community Answer
    If you don't have glue, try using craft paint instead. Make sure it's white, and thin the paint down with water. A 50-50 ratio is suitable.
  • Question
    What if I'm extremely attached to the books I have and don't often buy books that I'd be willing to mutilate the pages of?
    Sere_inn
    Community Answer
    Buy a random book you don't need or ask your friends or family if they have books they don't need. Charity or thrift stores, recycling centers that carry books and free book giveaways are possible ways to get cheap, unwanted books that might work well for you.
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