The Complete Guide to Book Vases: History, Styles, DIY, and Creative Ideas

Book vases have become one of the most charming and trending home décor pieces in recent years. Combining the sophistication of literature with the beauty of floral arrangements, a book vase is a perfect conversation starter—equally suited to minimalist apartments, cozy reading nooks, and Instagram-worthy event tables.

In this guide, we’ll explore what a book vase is, its origins, popular designs, and how to make one yourself. We’ll also dive into the different variations like book vase painting kits and Mondo Llama book vases, and share expert tips for arranging flowers in your new favorite décor piece.

1. What Is a Book Vase?

A book vase is a decorative vase designed to look like a stack of books, a single book standing upright, or an open book hollowed out to hold flowers. The main idea is to merge literary charm with floral beauty, making it an appealing choice for:

• Book lovers
• Interior designers
• Event stylists
• DIY craft enthusiasts

Some book vases are purely decorative with artificial flowers, while others are fully functional vases for fresh floral arrangements.

2. The Growing Popularity of Book Vases

Why They’re Trending

1. Aesthetic Appeal: The mix of vintage charm and modern styling makes them Instagram-friendly.
2. Personalization: You can match book spines to your favorite genres or color palettes.
3. Gift Potential: They make thoughtful gifts for readers, teachers, or writers.
4. DIY-Friendly: Many people enjoy making book vases as craft projects.

3. Types of Book Vases

3.1 Classic Ceramic Book Vase

A solid ceramic vase molded in the shape of upright books. Often glazed in pastel or neutral tones for a sophisticated look.

3.2 Mondo Llama Book Vase

Sold by Target under its Mondo Llama brand, these vases are often part of painting kits that allow you to decorate your own vase.

3.3 Hollowed-Out Real Book Vase

An actual hardcover book hollowed out and fitted with a waterproof container inside.

3.4 Painted Wooden Book Vase

Made from carved wood and painted to look like stacked novels, sometimes with customizable “book titles” for a personal touch.

3.5 Folded Paper Book Vase

An art form where book pages are folded to create a vase-shaped sculpture—more decorative than functional.

4. The Mondo Llama Book Vase and Painting Kit

One of the most popular modern takes on the book vase is the Mondo Llama Book Vase Painting Kit, available at Target.

What’s Included:

• Plain ceramic book-shaped vase
• Paint pots in assorted colors
• Paintbrushes
• Design inspiration sheet

Why It’s Popular:

• Affordable and beginner-friendly
• Encourages creativity and personalization
• Great for family crafting sessions or gifting

5. How to Make a Book Vase: Step-by-Step

Option 1: Hollowing Out a Real Book

Materials Needed:

• A thick hardcover book
• Sharp craft knife
• Ruler
• Mod Podge or craft glue
• Small glass or plastic container (to hold water and flowers)

Steps:

1. Choose the Book: Pick one you’re willing to alter permanently.
2. Mark the Cut: Use the ruler to measure an inner rectangle for your vase space.
3. Cut the Pages: Using the craft knife, cut through several pages at a time until you reach your desired depth.
4. Glue the Pages Together: Apply Mod Podge to the inside edges to keep them secure.
5. Insert Container: Place the waterproof container into the hollowed space.
6. Add Flowers: Arrange fresh or artificial flowers for display.

Option 2: DIY Clay or Ceramic Book Vase

Materials:

• Air-dry clay or ceramic mold
• Sculpting tools
• Paint
• Clear sealant

Steps:

1. Shape the clay into a stack of books or single standing book.
2. Form an opening at the top for flowers.
3. Let the clay dry (or fire ceramic if using kiln).
4. Paint and seal for waterproofing.

Option 3: Paper Folding Vase Sculpture

Materials:

• Old paperback book
• Pencil
• Ruler

Steps:

1. Mark fold lines to create a vase silhouette.
2. Fold each page toward the spine to form curves.
3. Once done, your vase shape will appear naturally.

6. Painting and Decorating a Book Vase

If you have a book vase painting kit, or you’ve made your own, decorating is the fun part.

Painting Ideas:

• Classic Literature Theme: Paint faux spines with famous book titles.
• Color Block Modern: Minimalist solid colors for a clean look.
• Botanical Patterns: Match the floral arrangements with painted leaves and flowers.
• Seasonal Designs: Pumpkins for fall, snowflakes for winter, blossoms for spring.

Pro Tip: Use acrylic paint for bright, durable colors, and seal with a waterproof clear coat.

7. Arranging Flowers in a Book Vase

Because book vases vary in shape and size, here are some arrangement tips:

1. Choose the Right Flowers: Shorter stems like tulips, roses, or daisies work well.
2. Balance Colors: Match or contrast your vase’s colors with your flowers.
3. Add Greenery: Ferns, eucalyptus, or baby’s breath add texture.
4. Use Floral Foam: Keeps arrangements stable and hydrated.

8. Book Vases for Events and Décor

Weddings

• Place book vases on reception tables for a literary-themed wedding.
• Pair with vintage books and candles.

Bookstores & Libraries

• Use as centerpieces for author signings or reading events.

Home Offices & Reading Corners

• Add personality to shelves or desks.

9. Caring for Your Book Vase

• Ceramic/Glass: Hand wash gently with mild soap.
• Wood: Wipe clean; avoid soaking.
• Hollowed Book: Only use with a waterproof container inside.
• Painted Surfaces: Avoid abrasive cleaners to preserve designs.

10. Summary

A book vase is the perfect intersection of art, literature, and floral beauty. Whether you buy a Mondo Llama kit to decorate, craft one from an old novel, or collect ceramic designs, this trend allows for endless creativity. Book vases are functional, decorative, and deeply personal—ideal for book lovers and design enthusiasts alike.

References (10 Domains)

1. target.com – Mondo Llama book vase kits
2. americangirl.com – Craft inspiration for book-themed décor
3. marthastewart.com – DIY floral arrangement tips
4. bhg.com – Home décor trends
5. housebeautiful.com – Interior styling guides
6. pinterest.com – Book vase painting ideas
7. etsy.com – Handmade and custom book vases
8. instructables.com – DIY book crafts tutorials
9. goodhousekeeping.com – Flower care and arrangement advice
10. architecturaldigest.com – Design inspiration