Alter This!: Radical Ideas for Transforming Books Into Art

by Alena Hennessy

Take this book and…remake it! Introducing the first guide that not only teaches kids the basics of altered art, but is the very material for creating those personal pieces. That’s because this volume, along with dozens of others, is an art project just waiting to happen. With irreverent text and beautiful photography—and techniques such as stitching, image transferring, and cutting—Alter This! shows children how to turn telephone, picture, and even those boring grammar books into something exciting. Budding artists will decorate pages with collage, paint, stamps, pockets, and pop ups, and transform entire tomes into shadow boxes, picture frames, purses, or tools for passing notes in the hallway. Kids will want to own this book…and make it their own, too!

Genres: Art, Nonfiction, Crafts, Reference

96 pages, Hardcover

First published June 1, 2007

Reviews

[Cheryl · Rating 1 out of 5]

I was going to give this two stars, but when I found out how many other resources are available to us that are probably much better, I've knocked it down to one. This is aimed at kids (overkill on the safety advice, and a project that will enable discreet note-passing in class) and it shows. Most of the 'art' is childish and, frankly, ugly. Most of the projects are a variation of scrapbooking or hollowing out treasure boxes.

Most don't actually incorporate the book or the concepts of story, or reading, or communication, making the base irrelevant. If you want to see Art made from books, read Art Made from Books: Altered, Sculpted, Carved, Transformed. If you want ideas about how to craft a project by upcycling old books, browse blogs & boards.

[Pamela Hatch · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like the ideas in this craft title. You take a book and transform it into a work of art. This is one of the rare craft books that I liked just about every project featured in the book.

Alas I have not done any of the yet, maybe one day I will when I find the time, the resources, and the space.....

[Tania · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love it! This book is full of ideas on how to transform a book into art using collage, line work, words, color, stamping, etc. It's a great way to let go, express feelings and create a beautiful piece of art. it motivated me to be creative and try new things and materials I've never used.

[Sarah · Rating 1 out of 5]

This book didn't have anything I haven't seen in other altered-art books. The artwork is terrible, messy and looks very much like a child had done it. Not recommended.

[Angela · Rating 2 out of 5]

I thought the projects were ugly and unimaginative. I think in this case, better ideas and examples could be found online for those wanting to do this for a YA library program.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alot of great ideas in this book that I can't wait to try!

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shared during paper making program, but would love to use for an altered book program.

In J nonfic, but has a lot of good ideas.

[Marissa Elera · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely, accessible foray into the exciting art form of altered books. Great for the creative child or beginner!

[Darby · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think this book would be really fun to use when introducing kids to altered books, but also adults new to altered books. It has some fun projects.