Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Making a Blog Book

Only because you asked. I've tried before using other sites, but it seems that it just took your blog and slapped it in book form with little creative control. So, here's what I am going to do to make this blog into a keepsake book for Oliver. I "borrowed" most of these instructions from other bloggers who have forged before me into this realm.

I am going to make this blog into a 8x10 full color, hardbound book. Once I get it all done I will post photos of the final result.
Here's what you need to do:

1. Go to http://www.blurb.com/. Prices vary depending on the size of your book and the number of pages.

2. Create a free membership with a username and password then download Blurb's "booksmart" software. It's in the orange rectangle on their site. This is the software you'll use to make the book.

3. Open the Booksmart program, and click Create a new book. It'll ask you to choose the size you want. You'll then choose a background theme.
4. It will ask what layout you want and you'll choose "Blog to Book." It asks for your blog username and password. It will list all your blog posts, and you check all the ones you want included. I am going to put Oliver's blog all in one book, but when I get ready, I will divide our Family United blog into years.
It uses a default layout with a text box and a spot for 6 pictures. You can choose a custom layout if you have more pictures