Blind Date with a Book DIY: The Perfect Gift

[VIDEO TUTORIAL BELOW] When it comes to thoughtful and unique gifts, it’s hard to beat a Blind Date with a Book. This DIY gift idea combines the excitement of unwrapping a surprise with the joy of diving into a new story. Whether you’re looking for a creative Galentines(February 13)/Valentine’s Day(February 14) present, a Christmas(12/25) gift, Birthday gift(???) or just a heartfelt gesture for a friend, this project is easy to make, fun to personalize, and guaranteed to be memorable.

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of creating your own Blind Date with a Book, share some creative add-on ideas, and highlight why this makes such a special gift for any occasion. Let’s get started!

What is a Blind Date with a Book?

If you’ve ever browsed a bookstore and stumbled across those mysteriously wrapped books with a few handwritten clues about the story, then you’ve already experienced the magic of a Blind Date with a Book. The idea is simple but brilliant: wrap a book in paper, hide the title, and include hints or a brief description to pique curiosity. Add some fun, personalized extras like treats or self-care items, and you’ve created a gift that’s more than just a book—it’s an experience.

Why Blind Date with a Book is the Perfect Gift

Here are just a few reasons why this DIY is perfect for any special occasion:

• Surprise Factor: The recipient won’t know what book they’re getting until they open it, adding a layer of mystery and excitement. It would be super benifeical if you knew what their favorite type of genre is- ALSO- check out their Goodreads to see what they “Want to Read” and to make sure they haven’t “read this one” or “aren’t currently reading” the book. It helps guid you in the right direction for the book.

• Personal Touch: You can customize the packaging and add thoughtful extras tailored to their interests. This is the extra fun part- It’s also fun if you decorate package for the “theme and colors of the book”- ex. Rom Com: add pink and red on the packaging with hearts and lips and the extras you can also add color theme to make the book- and make sure you add some of their personal favorites-ex. elf lip balm, favorite pen, face mask.

• Budget-Friendly: You don’t need to break the bank—use thrifted books or affordable finds, and decorate with materials you already have. Dollar tree and dollar general are a great place to find some of the extras to add in the book sleeve.

• Memorable: Unlike generic store-bought gifts, this one is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.

This gift works beautifully for Galentines Day, Valentine’s Day, Christmas, birthdays, or even as a thank-you gift. Imagine pairing it with cozy socks and hot cocoa for a winter vibe, or heart-shaped candies and romantic novels for a Valentine’s theme. POSSIBILITIES ARE ENDLESS & I could come up with 10000 ideas for different books and different genres.

Materials You’ll Need

Here’s everything I used to create these beautiful Blind Date with a Book gifts: (this gift was for my sister for Christmas- these 2 books were on her list)

1. Books: I used Queen of Shadows by Sarah J. Maas and Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood. Choose books based on the recipient’s favorite genres—romance, mystery, fantasy, or self-help!

2. Kraft Paper: Simple and affordable, this makes the perfect blank canvas for decorating. [Brown Craft Paper Link]

3. Scrapbook Paper: Add texture and design with patterned or colorful paper. I used checkered prints, florals, and Valentine’s-inspired designs for Love, Theoretically Book and the red and black and Moodie colors to match Queen Of Shadows book.

4. Decorative Stickers: Paper flowers, pearl embellishments, and themed stickers add personality to each package. This is the fun part- also I’m starting to junk journal so all the left overs I didn’t use I added to my Junk Journal supply stash.

5. Glue or Tape: To secure the wrapping and decorations. I used glue stick to glue everything down, and tape to “wrap the book”

6. Pens or Markers: Use these to write clues or personal messages on the wrapping. HAVE FUN WITH IT!

7. Add-On Goodies: Haribo gummy bears, face masks, nail polish, bookmarks, and mini candles. Get creative with small, thoughtful extras that make the gift feel complete. (I personally just added all of my sisters favorites)

8. Gift Tags: Add a handwritten tag for a personal touch.

(Pro Tip: Many of these items can be thrifted or purchased affordably online. Add affiliate links here to make it easy for your readers to shop.)

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Here’s how to create your own Blind Date with a Book:

Step 1: Choose Your Book

Pick a book that aligns with the recipient’s tastes. For Valentine’s Day, Valentine’s Day, you might opt for a romance novel. For Christmas, try a cozy mystery or heartwarming story.

Step 2: Wrap the Book

Wrap the book in kraft paper. This creates a blank canvas for decorating. Don’t stress about making it perfect—handmade charm is part of the appeal! As I always say- “Perfectly Imperfect”

Step 3: Add Scrapbook Paper

Layer scrapbook paper on top of the kraft wrapping for added color and texture. Mix patterns and themes to match the occasion. For example, I used a combination of checkered paper, hearts, and floral designs. I’m a “Matchy Matchy” girly so I tried to choose paper and add ones that matches the books.

Step 4: Decorate with Embellishments

Use stickers, paper flowers, or pearl accents to make each package unique. Add clues about the book on the front, such as:

• “A magical fantasy world filled with danger and intrigue.”

• “Enemies-to-lovers romance with laugh-out-loud moments.”

Step 5: Include Goodies

Slip small extras into each package, such as book marks, new book Index tabs, face masks, candies, nail polish, or bookmarks. Choose items that complement the book’s theme or the recipient’s interests.

Step 6: Add a Tag or Personal Note

Finish with a handwritten tag or note to make the gift feel personal. For instance: “Wishing you a cozy Valentine’s Day filled with love and laughter!”

Creative Add-On Ideas

Not sure what to include with your book? Here are some thoughtful extras that pair perfectly with this gift:

1. Self-Care Items: Face masks, mini lotions, or bath bombs, lip balms, chapstick.

2. Snacks: Chocolates, gummy bears, popcorn, chocolate or a hot cocoa mix.

3. Cozy Accessories: Fuzzy socks, a mini candle, or a blanket.

4. Book Accessories: A cute bookmark, book light, book tabs, book light or personalized bookplate.

5. Seasonal Touches: Heart-shaped trinkets for Valentine’s Day or ornaments for Christmas.

Occasions for Blind Date with a Book

This gift idea works for so many occasions! Here are just a few ideas:

• Galentine’s Day(2/13): Add pink and red accents with besties stickers, chocolates.

• Valentine’s Day(2/14): Add pink and red accents, chocolates, and romantic books.

• Christmas(12/25): Wrap with festive paper and include cozy winter reads.

• Birthdays(TBD): Tailor the extras to the recipient’s hobbies, like tea bags for tea lovers or sketchbooks for artists.

• Book Clubs: Surprise your club members with a themed Blind Date with a Book gift exchange. (I want to do this so bad)

Link to More Inspiration

If you love this DIY, don’t miss my January Bucket List Blog Post for fun ways to kick off the year with creativity and intention.

Final Thoughts

Blind Date with a Book is more than just a DIY—it’s a heartfelt way to show someone you care. The combination of a great read, thoughtful extras, and beautiful packaging makes it a gift they’ll remember long after the unwrapping is done.

Are you ready to try this project for yourself? I’d love to see how yours turn out! Be sure to tag me on Instagram at @AshtonSedita with your creations. Don’t forget to follow me for more fun and festive DIYs that celebrate every season.

XOXO, Ashton