Weekly Recap March 7, 2025: Calling All Book Lovers
March 08, 2025
Michelle
Fellow bookworms, let's talk about leveling up your reading game with some laser-crafted creations!
Whether you're tackling your 2025 TBR pile or sticking with tried-and-true historical fiction, we've got Glowforge projects that'll make your reading experience even better — and maybe show off your bookish style while you're at it.
From precision-cut bookmarks to custom reading accessories, these laser-crafted projects are perfect for anyone who loves books as much as they love making things.
A Historical Twist on Bookmarks
First up: a bookmark that's definitely a conversation starter! This French Revolution-inspired guillotine bookmark combines maple plywood and clear acrylic to create something both functional and fantastically macabre. The dangling acrylic blade adds just the right touch of historical accuracy — perfect for those deep dives into revolutionary literature!
Make Your Own Guillotine BookmarkGetting Started with Custom Bookmarks:
- Start with thin materials like maple plywood for the base. It's sturdy but won't bulk up your books.
- Use clear acrylic for moving parts to create that "floating" effect.
- Remember to account for book thickness when designing — you want your bookmark to stick out just enough.
- Try different materials and themes to match your favorite genres!
The Perfect Reading Companion
Speaking of perfect reading accessories — check out this cherry plywood book caddy that thinks of everything! Not only does it hold your place while you take a break, but it's also got dedicated spots for your coffee mug and reading glasses. Because let's be honest, the best reading sessions are properly equipped.
Oh, and did we mention you can make this very project for yourself?
Make A Book CaddyCreating Sturdy Reading Accessories:
This kind of project is all about precision and stability. Here's what you need to know:
- Cherry plywood gives you that perfect balance of beauty and durability.
- Make sure to test your joints before final assembly — you want everything to fit snugly.
- Consider adding felt pads to the bottom to protect your surfaces.
- Try customizing the design for different reading styles. Maybe add a tablet holder or a spot for your booklight?
Track Your Reading in Style
We're obsessed with this creative take on a reading tracker! Turn your 2025 TBR list into a gorgeous bingo card, complete with tiny book covers that'll give you serious shelf envy.
Joining the Cozy Crafternoons Community:
Our Cozy Crafternoons series brings makers together to create, share tips, and get inspired. This reading tracker was featured in our latest session, where we explored:
- Different tracking layouts for various reading goals
- Tips for creating clean, precise cuts in plywood
- Creative ways to customize your tracker
- Ideas for rewarding yourself when you hit bingo (new books, anyone?)
Catch up on our latest craft and stay tuned for the next Cozy Crafternoon!
Join Cozy CrafternoonsReader's Corner: More Bookish Project Inspo
Can't get enough reading-inspired projects? Here are some more ideas to try:
- Custom bookends that match your décor
- Library organization signs
- A customized "ex libris" stamp to label your books as yours
- Book sleeve protectors for your - precious hardcovers
- Reading journal covers with intricate designs
A Quick Guide to Materials
These projects showcase some of our favorite materials for laser crafting. From the precision cuts possible with plywood to the crystal-clear beauty of acrylic, each material brings something special to your bookish creations. Want to learn more about working with different materials?
Check out our Material Deep Dive blog series for tips, techniques, and inspiration!
Get your Glowforge ready and let's make something magical. Share your bookish creations with us — we'd love to see what you make! ✨📚