Materials List

Here is a list of the supplies we've found useful for this project. Although, dont' forget about other optional additions like puff paint, stickers, or eco-friendly glitter. Have other fun or unconventional materials you've used? Please share them with us! #HelloBeesties:

Download the Printable List

• Plain printer paper

• Cardboard/cardstock in various colors - cut to the two size options

• Hole punch (1 hole for 6 x 9 or 3 hole for 8.5 x 11)

• Colorful string or yarn

• Stapler *if using staples instead of string

• Scissors (safety scissors are great for younger crafters)

• Craft glue (stick or Elmers)

• Markers, crayons, or colored pencils

• Letter Stencils (optional for the cover title)

• Fun scrapbook paper

• Metal ruler and mat, cutting board or trimmer

• Binder clips

Step 1. Develop Your Story

Let's get started on the writing process! You'll begin by starting to write a new story or polishing your existing one. If. you need some guidance, complete the Story Elements Worksheet (link below) to help you develop your plot, characters, setting, and conflict.

Download the Story Elements Worksheet

Step 2. Editing/Publisher Review

Ask a friend, neighbor, or teacher to read your story and offer any edits or feedback on your writing. If a peer review isn't available to you, set your work aside and revisit it after a few days. You may catch new elements to revise, expand, or remove with a fresh set of eyes.

Once you've completed your story (or Story Elements Worksheet), share it with us on Instagram @hellobeesties. Your herd at WPC is happy to offer some suggestions to help you on your writing adventure!

Step 3. Contract Review

Now it’s time to collaborate with your Publisher. Carefully read over the terms of the contract, such as the royalty rate, payment schedule, and any other relevant details. Make certain you fully understand the contractual agreement you are signing.

If you're working with kids, ask them to negotiate a book deal with you. You can use our mock contract for practice. 

Download it here. 

Step 4. Choose your book size and binding type 

Now it's time to start deciding what your book will look like. You'll want to choose the best size for your book based on your content and audience. For instance, workbooks and manuals are usually a full sheet of paper size, while fiction and journals tend to be 6x9. 

In the demo video, we demonstrate some craft binding techniques and guide you in choosing the right technique based on your book's length and purpose.

Step 5. Format the interior

Some standard book elements include the following pages: 

• Title page
• Copyright page (download template)
• Table of Contents
• Dedication or acknowledgement
• Chapters or sections
• The last page is often about the author

Step 6. Cover design

Now the fun, and very important, part! It’s time to design an eye-catching cover, relevant to your story, that includes all the necessary information including the title, author's name, back cover details, ISBN, and publishing imprint.

For Book Craft we recommend using something a bit more sturdy than regular paper, such as cardstock or scrapbook paper. Carboard could be used for hardcover books.

Step 7. Market, Promote, and Distribute Your Book

Once you complete your finishing touches, your book is ready to market and promote! If you're building books with your kids this is a great opportunity to teach them about making a sales pitch. Contract negotiations and sales experience will come in handy, regardless of the career path. See if they can sell you on why this is your next favorite book.

*Don't forget to record it and also share it with us @hellobeesties on Instagram because we're sure it's adorable!