How to Assemble Adapted Books
I get so many questions about how to assemble my adapted books and what tools I use to assemble them. So, I decided to just make a blog post about it. At the end of this post, I have also linked my YouTube video that gives a quick demonstration of how I do it.
Step 1:
Print the PDF file to laminate on cardstock. You need a good laminator and good laminating pouches. I use both scotch and Amazon's brand for the laminating sheets, but really either is good. Then, I use this Scotch laminator. The one that I am using is a 13 inch, but you can use any size laminator for this project.
Step 2:
Next, place all of your cardstock in each of the laminating sheets or pouches!
Step 3:
When the laminator is hot and ready, put the sheets through the laminator closed side first. I make sure that my laminator is very hot at this point.
Step 4:
After that, cut out all of the pages of the adapted book. Leave the last page whole. This leaves a place for all of the Velcro pieces (or hook and loop dots) to be stored.
Step 5:
You need a binding machine of some sort. Something to put holes in the side of the adapted book. I use this Swingline ProClick P50. I love this one because it is so simple and easy to use. Some people use spiral binding and others like to use combs. I prefer to use spiral binding because they last a lot longer. These are the spiral bindings that I use. I have been using them for about 5 years with some students that have beaten them up and they have held up.
Step 6:
One page at a time, put holes in each of the pages on the left-hand side.
PRO TIP:
When you start binding, add a binder clip to the sides so that the holes line up and don't move on you!
Step 7:
After you have bound all of the books you are making, the next step is to add Velcro or hook and loop dots. I absolutely think that these coin “hook and loop” fasteners are the best to use for these adapted books. However, you could even use tacky glue.
Adding the Velcro:
I add hard Velcro to the blank squares on the right side of the last page. This is the page that stores all of the moveable pieces. Some people use the soft pieces, but I like the soft ones on the cards that move.
Next, I add hard velcro to the inside of the adapted books that I am putting together.
Pro Tip:
Try adding the soft velcro to the backs of the matching cards BEFORE you cut them apart. This saves both time and energy.
Final Step:
In conclusion, put the moveable pieces to the right side of the completed book, and you are finally done!
Do you need some Adapted Books?
I have so many different types of adapted books for you to check out. I have adapted books for guided reading, adapted books for counting, and even digital adapted books via Boom Cards. I have adapted books for every season!
Watch the YouTube video below for a video demonstration on how to assemble these adapted books today!
Want FREE adapted books for you to start with?
Try a few of these to get you started
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