For my first born, I was given a beautiful Usborne cot book with a farm theme. It was fun to tie to the crib/cot rail for entertainment, but my second born is more grabby than my first and it was coming undone more than being enjoyed so it was time to turn it into something better suited for Little Mr. Grabby Hands. Which is what inspired a crib bumper sewn into a quiet book.
Here is the book in promotional images from the publisher… 
The process itself seemed like it would take a lot of time and skill, but then I just jumped in and it took about a half hour to do this entire project!
I cut between the seams of the book so it would have two pages together, plus one solo page. I also cut the various ties that help create the concertina-style binding, except for one that is at the core of the book so I could tie it to a plastic loop for hanging or tethering to a stroller/buggy.
To bind the cloth pages together, I used a simple binding stitch which I learned in my undergrad time because I studied Bookbinding Arts for two semesters as part of my Fine Art Studio degree. That was my three-dimensional art credit, instead of ceramics.
I used some of the cut ties to sew one each to the first and last pages top and bottom to tie the book closed.
I could have used pretty embroidery thread and included the spare ties for a cohesive look, but baby A was napping and I had a long To Do list, so simple was the approach. I did, however, choose bright green thread that coordinates with the grass in the farmer pages.
Though it was not what I consider my best work, it is sturdy and useful, so it does the trick and was a quick nap time project. It really is a lovely result and a nice on-the-go book to entertain baby A.
He approves!
This was also a nice first step to build my confidence for a larger quiet book I plan to make later this year when Mr. Grabby Hands builds enough focus and dexterity to enjoy a bit more of an active “reading” experience. I have a whole Quiet Book Ideas Pinterest board dedicated to ideas for it, so it just takes time and supplies.
What quick project have you done lately that has proven fun and satisfying?