I’ve been on a mission to make my final steampunk project photos truly pop, so I designed these DIY Steampunk Prop Books to add Victorian flair to every shot. In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to upcycle old hardcover books using waterslide decal paper, chalk paint and clear acrylic sealant to create eye‑catching steampunk book props. Follow along and master this easy technique—no fancy tools required!

I’ve had fantastic results using waterslide decal paper on wood—it’s quick, straightforward and delivers crisp images every time. Curious to see if this technique would translate to book covers, I gave it a go. While the transfers weren’t perfect, I’ve pinpointed the hiccups so you can avoid the same pitfalls.

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DIY Steampunk Prop Books: Upcycle Hardcover Books with Waterslide Decals for Stunning Photo Props

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Materials Needed

• Hardcover books with smooth paper covers
• Waterslide decal paper (inkjet compatible)
• Chalk paint (white) or gesso/acrylic paint
• Clear acrylic spray sealant
• Sharp craft knife or scissors
• Shallow tray or sink for water bath
• Felt scraper or old credit card
• Precision ruler or measuring tape

Step 1: Prepare Your Books

Choose hardcover books with plain paper covers—matte surfaces let decals stick smoothly. Avoid plastic‑coated jackets, which repel waterslide transfers, and steer clear of embossed lettering, as raised titles will show through the paint.

Step 2: Paint the Covers

Paint the front, back and spine with white chalk paint (or gesso/acrylic) to create a bright base for your images. Apply two thin coats, letting each dry 10–15 minutes in warm weather. This opaque layer ensures vivid decal colours.

Step 3: Print and Seal Your Images

Download free‑stock steampunk graphics (check licence for commercial use). Resize images to fit your book’s cover plus an extra 1 cm border for wrapping.

Print onto the glossy side of waterslide decal paper using an inkjet printer. Let the ink dry completely (5–10 minutes). In a well‑ventilated area, spray a light coat of clear acrylic sealant; wait another 5 minutes, then apply a second coat.

Step 4: Trim the Decals

Cut your printed decal so the main design is centred, then leave an extra 1 cm border all the way around. That little “wrap‑around” margin lets you fold the edges over the cover and spine and tuck them neatly inside. Once the decal is applied and fully dry, you can seal those folded flaps under a final coat of clear acrylic spray for a clean, secure finish.

Step 5: Apply the Waterslide Decals

Fill a shallow tray with lukewarm water—just enough to cover the paper.

Submerge one decal; after 15–20 seconds, the decal will loosen and you’ll see the image through the film. The curling up of the paper is natural.

Gently slide the film onto the book, lining up one corner first, then smooth it across the surface.

Use a felt scraper or credit card to press out air bubbles and excess water. Once positioned, blot lightly with a soft cloth and let dry 30 minutes.

Step 6: Seal and Finish

After the decal is fully dry (ideally 24 hours for best adhesion), apply a final coat of clear acrylic spray to lock everything in place.

And just like that, my steampunk prop books were complete! I’ve already styled them in several shoots where they add the perfect industrial‑vintage flair. You’ll also spot the custom steampunk camera prop I handmade alongside them.

Calling all steampunk fans—if you’re keen to craft your own steampunk gnomes, follow this tutorial!

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