This is a tutorial showing you how to make a row of faux (fake) books for a bookshelf or a video studio set.

I make these books and more for my wizards lair video studio.

I also have a video tutorial for this project at the bottom of the page.

I have a youtube channel with over 700 videos on projects you can make. Check it out right here

Materials and tools for this tutorial:

• A large piece of XPS foam (Expanded Polystyrene Foam) I use two inch thick foam. You can get it at home improvement stores - You can also try other types of foams , experiment first.
• A sharp hobby knife ( I use an x-acto)
• Some sand paper , around 220 grit but this is flexible
• Paints - Black and any color you want your books
• Paint pens (optional but nice) silver, gold and any other colors you like

You have a lot of options when it comes to making your own bookshelf of faux books.

Including making a full size book for the end so you can use a book end.

One of the bookshelves

Our wizard's lair has multiple bookshelves. Here is the shelf we start with.

Let's Get Started

Measure the size that you need for your stack of books. Measure both the horizontal length and the vertical length.

Measure out and cut your stack.

Once your stack is cut you should tape some sandpaper to a scrap block of foam and sand the edges of your book stack smooth (top and sides).

Okay, the shaped block of books look good. I tried it in the bookshelf.

Let's continue

Watch the video tutorial here:

Suggested Materials and Tools:

X-ACTO Z Series #1 Knife with Cap (XZ3601)