Jodi's Board Book

Posted by Jodi

Babies love pictures of themselves and people that they know. So, a book filled with photo collages of the parents-to-be, family, and friends would make such a great shower gift. If the parents-to-be are crafty, a stack of blank books for them to fill would be an excellent gift. But homemade books would also make really cool gifts for friends if filled with old photos, excerpts from letters, and other souvenirs. That's why I’ve been obsessed with these blank white board books which are available at Romp, an excellent childrens store right around the corner from me in Brooklyn. The books come in two sizes: 5 inches x 5 inches or  8 inches x 8 inches. You can also get them from Oriental Trading (in the same sizes) but I've found them to be not quite as sturdy.

Blank board books from Romp

Over at my place we've been cranking out so many of these books that we practically have a mini factory. The books we make are pretty silly and messy (and not really meant for, well, grownups to see). We paste in photos, paper cutouts, and stickers to create a story. Here are a few of the ones we've made.

My older son Sammy and I made one last year for my younger son's first birthday, “We love Lionel,” and another for a little baby friend that we watch on Fridays titled “Friday Brothers."

Sammy just made this one, “Lionel’s Alphabet Book,” this weekend for Lionel’s second birthday. Both babies love them very much -- as you can see by the juice and marker stains on the covers!

The inside of a birthday book

Two open pages

Comments

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[www.customboardbooks.com]

I actually make custom board books in my home business. I am glad to see that there is interest in this type of product. I have always thought it was a great way to get kids interested in books.

[Elizabeth]

I found your site through RecoverGirl. I have to tell you about some other great ways to make books for your kids! My Parents As Teachers program in our school district has an annual class on this. You can make books using empty photo albums, Zip-Loc bags, and even index cards held together with a book ring or comb binding. I've also used laminate samples to make "books" like counting books (using stickers). I love making books for my kids! And I'm so glad to find your post and see the blank board books. I'll have to order those too.
If you want to know more about the "make your own book" class, email me and I'll send you all the ideas. There are so great ones!

[jennifer]

A great idea! Have you tried covering the pages with clear Con-tac paper? It might help the artwork hold up to sticky little fingers a bit longer.

[jessica]

what a clever idea, my kids would love this

[Diana]

Fantastic idea - I think it's much more practical and fun than traditional scrapbooking. I may have to make one for my nephew!

[Alan]

Jodi -- it's great to see you blogging ..
I miss KIDS tons -- what a great magazine .. you should be very proud of it .. I still purchase back issues of KIDS and BABY for friends as shower gifts ...

[rml]

this is such a cute idea! i absolutely love it...and bluelines!