Miniature Book Shelf in a Bell Jar

Welcome to the world of miniature crafting, where creativity knows no bounds! In this project, we'll guide you through the steps to create a charming miniature bookshelf .

You'll learn how to cut and assemble sunboard pieces, paint the shelves to add character, and create adorable miniature books to place on the shelves. This project is a delightful way to showcase your skills and add a unique piece to your miniature collection.

So, gather your materials, unleash your imagination, and let's create a miniature masterpiece together!

1. Sunboard (Foam board)
2. Craft knife
3. Ruler
4. Pencil
5. Paint and brushes
6. Glue
7. Molding Clay
8. Bell Jar
9. Papers

1. Cut out two rectangles that will become the side walls of the bookshelf.
2. Take a longer rectangular piece and score it lightly (without cutting through) across multiple parallel lines.
3. This will allow the sunboard to bend smoothly into an arch.
4. Gently curve the scored strip and glue the ends to form an arched piece.
5. Repeat the same process for smaller strips to create layered inner arches, decreasing in size.
6. These add depth and dimension to the top part of the bookshelf.
7. Cut multiple small rectangular pieces (all the same length) for the shelves.
8. Evenly space and glue them horizontally between the side panels, starting from the bottom.
9. Once all shelves are fixed, make sure everything is aligned.

1. Cut two small triangular or L-shaped pieces from sunboard. These will act as support braces for stability.
2. Then Cut a small rectangular strip that fits the bottom length of the bookshelf.
3. Apply glue and fix the rectangular base support piece under the bottom shelf.
4. Glue the small triangular support pieces on either side at the back corners or between verticals and base.

1. Use a ruler to measure and cut the sunboard strips to fit each border and panel segment.
2. These will frame the bookshelf and enhance its structure.
3. Gently shape and texture clay strip into a vintage artwork and fit to the sides using super glue.
4. Allow the clay to fully dry.

1. Cover your work surface with newspaper or a plastic sheet to protect it from paint spills.
2. Select the acrylic paint colors you want to use for the shelves.
3. Use a small paintbrush to apply a thin, even coat of paint to the shelves. You may need to apply multiple coats for full coverage, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next.

1. Draw a perfect circle over a piece of sunboard.
2. Cut equal-width strips and place them horizontally and vertically across the base, taping the ends at the back forming a checkered grid.
3. Tape the ends to hold them temporarily.
4. Paint the exposed squares in black.
5. Remove all strips to reveal a perfect black-and-white checkerboard design.
6. Now place the shelf over the base.

1. Start by cutting out the printed miniature book covers from the sheet.
2. Be precise with the edges using a ruler and cutter for clean lines.
3. Fold the white paper stack in half to form a mini book block.
4. Place the folded paper onto the sunboard cover, aligning the crease with the edge of the cover.
5. Apply a thin layer of glue to the inner spine of the book cover.
6. Attach the folded paper block to the center crease of the cover.
7. Press and hold briefly for secure attachment.
8. Your first mini book is ready to go on the shelf.

1. Choose from the set of mini books you've already created.
2. Start with the top shelf and gradually work your way down.
3. Arrange books vertically, stacked, or leaning to mimic a natural library feel.
4. Add tiny scrolls, jars, candles, or props for character.
5. You can also slide in a few books half-out to make it look in-use.

Encased in a Bell Jar, this elegant miniature bookshelf stands tall and regal. The arched top structure, beautifully detailed with golden scrolls and accents, gives it a cathedral-like charm. Every shelf is filled with tiny, colorful books—each meticulously arranged to reflect a lived-in, cherished library. The base features a neat checkerboard pattern that adds contrast and sophistication.

This finished piece is not just a bookshelf—it's a mini world of stories and imagination, captured inside a dome for display. A perfect blend of craftsmanship, creativity, and fantasy.