Materials:

• Color printer
• Computer with scanner or digital image of book
• Plain paper or card stock
• White glue
• Small block of plywood (1/8 to 1/4 inch thick)
• Small saw (to cut wood blocks)
• Sandpaper
• Clear varnish or Mod Podge
• Small piece of PVC pipe or chenille stem (for back loop)
• Scissors
• Ruler

Instructions:

1. Scan or find a clear image of the front, spine, and back of a book. The front image is the most important.
2. Paste the three images together in a line. Make it look like one flat book cover.
3. Shrink the image to about 1½ inches wide. For handbooks, shrinking to 18% usually works.
4. Print the image in color. Use card stock if possible, but plain paper works too.
5. Measure the size of the printed image.
6. Cut a block of plywood to match that size. Sand the edges if rough.
7. Wrap the printed book cover around the block. Glue it in place.
8. Trim the edges if needed.
9. Let the glue dry.
10. Paint over the book with clear varnish or Mod Podge to protect it.
11. Let it dry again.
12. Glue a loop of PVC pipe or a chenille stem loop to the back. Hot glue holds better.
13. Let the glue dry fully before wearing.

Notes and Variations:

• Scouts can use any book cover, not just handbooks.
• Try comic books, favorite chapter books, or even make up a book cover.
• Younger Scouts will need help with the saw and varnish.
• Always use glue and varnish in a well-ventilated area.
• Be careful with sharp tools. Adults should supervise or handle the cutting and using hot glue.

For more information, see https://scoutermom.com/25517/mini-book-neckerchief-slide/