Children’s books have wonderful illustrations, but a lot of times the books themselves get beat up from use. You can often find a lot of kids books for free in a local Free Little Library in your area. If the covers are torn or pages are missing or written on, the books can be salvaged to use for kids crafts. A free little library is a small structure that is used to hold books that are available for anyone to borrow or take for free. Free little libraries are typically located in public spaces, such as parks, playgrounds, or community centers, and are maintained by volunteers or community organizations.

To up-cycle children’s book illustrations into greeting cards, you can follow these steps:

1. Gather your supplies: You will need children’s book illustrations (you can use old books you have around the house, buy at yard sales or library book sales or get from free libraries), cardstock for the card base, scissors or a paper cutter, and any additional decorations or embellishments you want to add (such as ribbon, stickers, or washi tape).
2. Cut out the illustrations: Using scissors or a paper cutter, cut out the illustrations you want to use for your greeting cards.
3. Cut the cardstock: Cut the cardstock into the size and shape you want for your greeting cards. You can make them square, rectangular, or any other shape you like.
4. Assemble the cards: Glue the illustrations onto the cardstock using a glue stick or other adhesive. You can also add any additional decorations or embellishments to the cards at this time.
5. Write a message: On the inside of the card, write a message or greeting to the recipient.
6. Send or give the card: Once you have finished assembling the card, you can send it in the mail or give it to the recipient in person.

Upcycling children’s book illustrations into greeting cards is a fun and creative way to repurpose old materials and give them new life. It’s also a great way to add a personal touch to your cards and make them unique and special.

The two cards I made from this cool illustrated encyclopedia would be perfect for a little one visiting sleep away camp or space camp to send home to the parents. Kids cards inspired by your camp or space camp experience, you can share your adventures with others and create something special and memorable.