How to Turn Book Covers Into Shin Guard Covers

Shin guards are a necessary part of the safety equipment used by soccer players. Shin guards protect the shins against errant kicks by other players, which can be very painful when the kicker is wearing cleats. Shin guards are inserted into sleeved protectors that can be removed and cleaned. You can purchase shin guard sleeves from sporting supply stores or you can save some money and make your own using stretchable book covers. Making your own shin guards also allows you to pick the color and pattern of the finished product.

Things You'll Need

  • Stretchable book cover
  • Scissors
  • Sewing machine
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Lay a stretchable book cover out on your work surface, with the front of the book cover facing down. Stretchable book covers are available in different materials, colors and patterns. Choose the color or pattern that is right for you. Material-wise, fabric covers are easier to work with, but you can use the plastic covers if you prefer.

    • 2

      Cut the pockets off of the book covers. Use scissors and cut the covers just to the side of the pocket that the cover of the book slips into. You will need both pockets to complete a set of shin guard covers, so be sure to cut them both off. Dispose of the center section of the book cover or save it for another craft project.

    • 3

      Sew your shin guard covers. Use your sewing machine and sew along the long side of each pocket to seal it so that you have a long tube. If your book cover has both of the short ends of the pocket sealed, use your scissors to cut along the seams of the short sides on each pocket. This will open up the short ends so you have a long tube that you can fit over the shin guard.

    • 4

      Insert the shin guard. Slip your leg into the sleeve and then insert your shin guard between your leg and the sleeve.