16 Easy Ways to Decorate with Books

Hi! I’m excited to share my love for books and how they can make any space feel warm and inviting. 

Books do more than tell stories—they can add charm to your home, too. 

Stacking them on tables, arranging them on shelves, or even turning them into art can give your home a cozy and stylish touch.

The best part? You don’t need fancy decorations or expensive items. Just a few books can make a big difference.

In this blog, I’ll show you 16 easy ways to use books in your decor. These ideas are simple, fun, and perfect for any home. I hope these ideas spark your creativity and help you see your books in a whole new light!

You can create a beautiful and lively space if you have a large book collection or just a few favorites.

How Do I Choose a Book for Décor?

When decorating with books, picking ones that complement your space is important. Here are a few things to consider when choosing books for decor:

• Color: Choose books that match or contrast nicely with your room’s color scheme. A mix of neutral tones or bold colors can create a stylish effect.
• Size & Shape: Stacking books of different sizes can add depth and interest to a display. Larger books work well as bases, while smaller ones can sit on top.
• Cover Design: Hardcover books with beautiful spines or covers make the best decor pieces. If a book has a cover that doesn’t fit your style, remove the dust jacket for a cleaner look.
• Theme & Personality: Books should reflect your personality and interests. Whether it’s travel, fashion, history, or photography, displaying books that you love will make your space feel more personal.

Creative and Easy Ways to Decorate with Books

1. Use Books as a Table Centerpiece

One of my favorite ideas is to use books as a centerpiece on a table. I start with a neat stack of books in the middle of my coffee table or dining table.

Then, I add a small vase or a candle on top. This simple look brings a cozy and personal touch to the room.

The books can be stacked in different sizes, and the mix of colors and textures creates an eye-catching display. It is a quick way to make your table look warm and inviting without much effort.

2. Create a Bookshelf Display

Bookshelves are more than just storage; they are a way to show off your collection.

I like to arrange my books on the shelves in a way that tells a story. Sometimes, I line them up by size, and other times, I mix them up for a casual look.

Adding a few small plants, photos, or trinkets between the books makes the display interesting.

This method not only keeps your books organized but also turns them into a part of your home decor. It is a fun way to bring character to a room.

3. Stack Books on Coffee Tables

Another easy idea is to create a small stack of books on your coffee table.

I often choose a few books that I love and pile them neatly on one side of the table. Then, I add a small lamp or a bowl of fruit on top.

This style works well for creating a relaxed and lived-in look. It invites you to pick up a book and enjoy a moment of reading.

The key is to keep the stack tidy and balanced so it looks like a planned part of the decor rather than a random mess.

4. Use Books as a Side Table

Have you ever thought of using a stack of books as a side table? I have tried this trick in my living room.

I build a stable stack of books and top it with a tray or a small decorative object. This makes a unique side table that is both practical and stylish.

It is a clever way to use items that you already own. Just make sure the books are arranged securely so nothing topples over.

This idea works best in spaces where you want to add a touch of whimsy without spending extra money.

5. Display Books on a Ladder

If you have a small ladder at home, consider turning it into a book display.

I lean a wooden ladder against a wall and place books on each step. This look is simple and adds a rustic feel to the room.

The ladder gives you extra display space, and the books are arranged in a casual, eye-catching way. It is a perfect solution if you have limited shelf space.

The ladder’s natural lines and the books’ varied sizes work well together, making the area feel relaxed and creative.

6. Create a Cozy Book Nook

I love having a special spot where I can read and relax. Creating a cozy book nook is a fun way to use books in your decor.

Find a quiet corner in your home and add a comfy chair or a soft cushion. Then, arrange a small bookshelf or a stack of books nearby so you can always have something to read.

A soft throw and a little lamp complete the look. This space becomes a little retreat, a place to escape and enjoy some quiet time.

The books add a personal touch that makes the nook feel truly yours.

7. Use Books to Frame a Picture

Books can be used in creative ways, such as framing a picture.

I once laid out a few open books on a table and placed a small photo or a piece of art right in the center.

This simple setup creates a frame around the picture, drawing attention to it. The look is neat and artistic, and it is a great way to display both your books and your favorite photos.

This small project can add a flair to a shelf or table. The natural colors of the book pages bring a soft, gentle glow to your art.

8. Organize Books by Color

Arranging books by color is an easy and fun idea. I have tried this many times, and it always brings a fresh look to my bookshelf.

First, I sort the books into groups based on their cover colors. Then, I arrange each group neatly on the shelf.

The result is a rainbow of books that can brighten up any space. This method not only makes your shelf look organized but also creates a playful visual treat.

It is a great idea for those who enjoy order and creativity in their home decor.

9. Display Books on Floating Shelves

Floating shelves are a modern way to show off your book collection.

I have a few floating shelves on my wall displaying my favorite books. They create a clean, open look that is perfect for small spaces.

You can arrange the books vertically or horizontally for a neat display. I like to mix in a few small plants or decorative items between the books.

This adds interest and breaks up the rows of pages. Floating shelves help keep the room light and airy while highlighting your books’ beauty.

10. Use Books to Create a Statement Wall

For a bold look, consider using books to create a statement wall.

I once lined a section of my wall with my favorite books. I arranged them in neat rows to form a patterned display.

This idea can be used in any room, but it works especially well in a living room or study. The book wall becomes the focal point, drawing the eye and adding depth to the room.

It is an easy project that requires no paint or heavy decor. Just a collection of books and a little planning can turn an empty wall into a work of art.

11. Create DIY Book Art

If you like crafts, you might enjoy turning old books into art.

I have tried a few DIY projects where I cut out pages or create folded designs with the pages. These projects let you see the beauty of books in a new way.

You can hang the finished piece on a wall or use it as a decorative element on a shelf.

DIY book art is a fun way to recycle old books and bring creativity into your home. It is also a great conversation starter when friends visit.

With a pair of scissors and a little imagination, you can create something truly unique.

12. Use Old Books for Crafts

Old books do not have to go to waste.

I often use them for simple crafts that add a personal touch to my decor. One idea is to make a bookmark from an old page or to create paper flowers.

These crafts are fun to make and add a bit of charm to your room. You can also use old books to create decorative garlands or even to decoupage a box.

These projects give new life to books that you no longer read, turning them into art pieces or useful items around the house.

It is a creative way to honor the past while adding style to your space.

13. Make a Book Sculpture

For a creative twist, try making a book sculpture.

I have seen simple sculptures made by stacking and leaning books in a creative way. You can build a pyramid shape or even create a small arch.

The key is to arrange the books to support each other and create a stable structure.

This idea works well as a decorative accent on a table or shelf. It shows that books can be both functional and artistic. 

With a little planning and some careful stacking, you can turn your books into a small work of art that adds a unique charm to your room.

14. Use Books to Decorate a Mantel

A mantel is a great place to show off your books.

I like to place a few of my favorite books on my fireplace mantel. I arrange them neatly and add a small plant or a decorative item on top.

This creates a warm and inviting look, perfect for a living room. The books add a personal touch that makes the space feel lived in and loved.

It is a simple change that can bring a new life to an old mantel. The key is to mix books with other items to keep the display balanced and interesting.

15. Arrange Books in a Pattern

Arranging books in a pattern can give your space a neat and artistic feel.

I like to experiment with different patterns on my shelves. For example, I might alternate between large and small books or mix horizontal and vertical placements.

This method creates a dynamic look that catches the eye. It is also a great way to use books that have interesting colors or textures.

Playing with patterns lets you express your style and make your book display unique.

With a little time and creativity, you can turn a regular shelf into a creative design feature.

16. Use Books in a Creative Display

Finally, one of my favorite ideas is to create a creative display that mixes books with other items.

I often combine books with items like small plants, photos, or art pieces on a shelf or table. This mix creates a layered look that feels very natural.

The books serve as a backdrop, and the extra items add a burst of color and life. This idea is very flexible and can work in many rooms, from the living room to a study area.

It is a great way to show off your personality and the things you love, all while giving your books a place to shine.

Conclusion

Books are more than just for reading—they can add style, warmth, and personality to any space.

Decorating with books is easy and affordable to make your home feel cozy and inviting. You can stack them on tables, arrange them on shelves, or even turn them into unique displays.

Simple changes like organizing books by color, adding plants, or using books as a centerpiece can make a big difference in any room.

The best part is that you don’t need expensive decor items to create a beautiful space. Books you already own can be used in creative ways to bring charm and character to your home.

Try a few of these ideas and see how books can transform your space. No matter the size of your collection, there is always a way to style books beautifully. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I decorate a coffee table with books?

Choose a few hardcover books with stylish covers and stack them neatly. Add a decorative object like a candle, small plant, or tray on top. Keeping the arrangement simple makes it look intentional and elegant.

Where is the best place to display books?

Books can be placed on coffee tables, shelves, mantels, and side tables. Floating shelves or ladders also make great display spots. Even small spaces like nightstands can benefit from a neatly stacked book arrangement.

How do I organize books by color?

Sort books into color groups and arrange them in a gradient or rainbow pattern. This method makes bookshelves look neat and stylish. If some books don’t fit the color scheme, turn them around to show the pages instead of the spine.

Can I use old books for decor?

Absolutely! Vintage books add character and charm to any space. You can stack them, frame pages for wall art, or even create DIY crafts like book sculptures and paper flowers.

Do books need to match my home decor?

Not necessarily! Books add personality, so it’s okay if they don’t match perfectly. If you want a cohesive look, choose books in colors that complement your space or remove dust jackets for a more uniform style.