Transforming Old Books Into Something New: The Joy of Altered Books

A few years ago, my kids and I visited an exhibition at a cultural centre. Like most children, my 3 children each grabbed a free activity guide—because sharing is not in their vocabulary. I remember holding the guidebook and it didn't feel like your average flimsy handout. This was beautifully made—wire-bound, full colour, thick, feels expensive BUT it was free.

Naturally, all three books came home with us… and placed in a box, they were quickly forgotten. I couldn’t bring myself to throw them away though. For a long time, their presence lingered, taking up space, quietly bothering me.

Eventually, I made a decision. Two went into the recycling bin. One stayed on in the box.

When Creativity Meets Purpose

Last year, I took an online course by the Museum of Modern Art on Coursera called Artful Practices for Well-Being (Highly recommended!). One of the assignments was: create an altered book.

That was my moment.

I suddenly remembered the lone activity guide tucked away in the box. What once felt like clutter now felt like possibility. I was excited before I had even begun—because finally, this book had a purpose.

What Is an Altered Book?

An altered book is taking an existing book and transforming it into something new. The original book becomes your canvas. Working with existing pages can feel especially freeing because you're not starting from nothing, you're not starting with a blank page. There’s no pressure to be perfect, only an invitation to explore and respond. You're playing, reacting, reflecting and discovering as you go.

4 Simple Ways to Start Your Own Altered Book

1. Paint Over the Pages

Use acrylic paint to cover parts of the page. Try leaving a small section unpainted—just for fun—to let a bit of the original text or image peek through.

2. Create with Stickers

Gather any stickers you have and start pasting. You can form a picture, tell a story, or simply build an abstract composition.

3. Write Freely

Use the pages as a space for words. Write a short poem, journal a thought, or simply scribble whatever comes to mind.

4. Tear and Collage (My Favourite)

Tear paper from magazines, ang pow packets, coloured paper, painted scraps. Then layer and paste them onto the page.

A Gentle Invitation To Create

My altered book is filled with layered pages, colours, textures, and moments of exploration. Some pages I love. Some I hate. All of them are meaningful. If you’ve got something lying around—an old exhibition guide book, a baby board book, even a calendar— try altering it. Start simple. Stay curious. Spark creativity.

Process Art Classes: Nurturing Creativity and Emotional Growth in Kids

Last September 2024, marked a major milestone for me: 1 year of teaching weekly art classes, creating a total of 35 lesson plans! Reflecting on this journey fills me with so much gratitude.

A decade ago, I left my role as an art instructor at a studio, thinking it would be nearly impossible to teach art without a formal space. But life has a way of surprising us. Over the past year, I’ve had the privilege of both entering the homes of incredible families and welcoming their children into mine. The trust these parents placed in me made this journey possible, and for that, I am deeply thankful.

Watching the kids’ creativity unfold week after week has been nothing short of magical. From exploring paints and textures to sculpting, printmaking, and more, I’ve witnessed not only their artistic growth but also their social-emotional development. These classes are about more than just creating art—they’re about fostering imagination, risk taking, curiosity, meaning making, and self-expression in a safe space.

Expanding Our Process Art Classes

Building on this incredible year, I’m excited to announce that we’re expanding our Process Art Classes! 🎉

If you’re a parent or educator looking to make art and creativity a regular part of your child’s or student's life, we now have new time slots available:

• Weekday: 9 AM – 2 PM

• Locations include Toa Payoh, Bishan, Upper Thomson, Novena, Newton, Marymount, Woodleigh, and Bartley.

  
  

Why Process Art?

Our classes focus on process art, which prioritises the creative journey over the finished product. Through these classes, children not only develop artistic skills but also gain valuable social-emotional learning tools such as self-awareness, emotional resilience, and empathy. These sessions are perfect for children aged 3 to 10 years old and can be incorporated into both homes and preschools.

Make Art a Part of Your Routine

As I look back on this past year, I’m filled with gratitude and excitement for what’s to come. If you’d like to bring art and creativity into your home or school routine, I’d love to hear from you! 💌 Email me at cartwheelssg@gmail.com for more details about classes or workshops.

Here’s to many more art-filled days ahead! Thank you for being part of this journey.

Pocketful of Love: First-Day-of-School Traditions

The first day of school is always a special milestone. Do you have a first-day-of-school tradition? Each year, I prepare a small surprise gift for my kids, accompanied by a handwritten note. It’s my way of adding a touch of love and encouragement to their big day. In the past 2 years, I've made gifts like notebooks and softies for them.

Funny enough, this tradition has become such a cherished ritual that my Secondary 2 kiddo once asked, “Where’s my surprise gift?”—and this was after the June mid-year holidays! I had to remind him that this treat is reserved for the first day of school. It’s heartwarming to see how much they look forward to these small gestures.

This year, I made heart pockets for each of my children. It’s not Valentine’s Day, but these soft and cozy creations serve as both a keepsake and a practical little gift. Each pocket holds a tiny family photo and an encouragement note—something personal to remind them of home while they’re at school. Behind the heart, there’s a secret compartment—perfect for tucking in a few pieces of their favourite candy.

Creating these heart pockets was such a meaningful experience. I followed a simple sewing tutorial by Sew A Softie, who teaches kids to sew but is also wonderful for sewing beginners and busy parents. (Check out the tutorial here).

If you’re looking for a way to make your child’s first day of school extra special, consider creating a tradition that reflects your family’s values and love. Whether it’s a heartfelt note, a handmade gift, or even a simple ritual like a favorite breakfast, these small gestures leave lasting memories.

Tips for First-Day-of-School Traditions

1. Keep it Simple: A handwritten note, a small treat, or a tiny keepsake can go a long way.

2. Personalise It: Include something that resonates with your child, like their favorite snack or a family photo.

3. Add a Touch of Creativity: Handmade items like the heart pocket make the gift extra special.

   
   

Happy creating traditions and memories!