Cleaning the book is the first real step in turning it into a notebook. This part takes patience, but it also feels calm and steady. You take your time. You hold the book. You learn its shape and weight. You notice small marks and lines that show where it has been. You start to bond with it long before you add anything new. This slow work helps you build a stronger craft piece.
Begin by opening the book on a flat table. Let the pages fall as they want. If they stick or bunch up, the glue may be weak or too dry. This tells you how careful you need to be. Old glue can crack. Some glue stays rubbery. Use a small blade or a dull knife to loosen the pages from the spine. Do not rush. Work one inch at a time. This keeps the spine safe.
Once the pages are out, you will see bits of glue stuck to the inside. Some people pull it all off at once, but that can tear the spine. Instead, scrape small spots. Move slowly. Warm the glue a bit with your hand. Your body heat makes it softer. When the inside looks clean, brush off the scraps.
Check the corners of the cover. Corners take the most wear. If they peel, you can press them back with a tiny bit of safe craft glue. Hold them in place until they grip. If you notice dirt or dust on the cover, gently wipe it clean with a dry cloth. Do not use water on old covers.
Water can warp them.
A dry cloth is usually sufficient for cleaning.
If the cover has old stickers or tape carefully loosen the edges with your fingernail. Pull slowly to avoid tearing the top layer of the board.
Then check the inside boards. These are the stiff parts under the first page If they bubble, press them under a stack of heavy books for a few hours.
Most bubbles flatten. If not, add a thin sheet of craft paper later to hide the spot.
Cleaning the book makes it ready for your new pages. It clears the old life so the new life can start. Buyers feel this care when they hold the notebook. They think that you took time. They feel the calm in the work.