my question would be what is the long edges? I really am dumb when it comes to putting on covers; which is why I got an F....

The long edges would be the top and bottom edges. Usually the opened book is wider than the height of the book so the longest edges will be on the top and bottom.

Oh, and my cover's already crinkled a lot so I doubt I'd be able to get it on. I have no idea what her teacher's going to think of me when she finds out I can't put a cover on....

http://specialchildren.about.com/od/schoolissues/ss/bookcover2.htm
This shows a step by step book cover made with a paper bag but it will show you how to do the folds.

i'm very sure that your aren't the only parent that has had trouble putting a book cover on a book, that doesn't mean anything, i'm sure she won't thin any less of you. is it possible to ask her for a new one?

I gave up on the damn thing. Either my husband's going to put it on, or I am going to admit defeat.

I'm going to ask for a new one tomorrow. Even if my husband gets it on, I want to try again. I have no idea what possesed me to do it....

that's sounds like a great idea to me...just relax for the rest of the day...

tell the hubby to go the the store and ask the clerks for some paperbags so you can practice. I am sure you will get this seems like you got a lot of support and once you finally get the cover on you will feel so proud to accomplish something ;p that has evaded you for a long time ;p gl and let us know how it goes

I dont think you are the only parent struggling with making a book cover. I bet it was a mom just like you that invented those fabric book covers that just nicely stretch over the book. My son last year told me he needed a book cover for some of his books and his teacher told them they can make them if they would like. Yeah I remembered doing it with paper sacks when I was younger, but for the life of me I couldnt do it. Well we were at staples and they had tons of those fabric book covers yeah!!!! LOL. Yeah I bought those for him and great thing is they wont rip and tear, look nice they had all kinds of cool designs and best thing Mommy could put it on the book LOL!!!
Good Luck!!
Take Care!!!

Thanks everyone. But, I've tried ten times, and now I have a headache. I am just inept when it comes with working with my hands. I would have failed 6-8 grade shop, if the shop teacher didn't realize how sweet and mentally retarded I was. =(

bp, go to the store and buy some fabric book covers. they are stretchy and come in 2 or 3 sizes. bring the books you want to cover so that you get the right size. a LOT easier... that's what I did. if there is an "educational supply" store in your area, look there first.

I'm looking on ebay right now for christmas presents. I think I am going to look on ebay for one of those covers. We have no educational supply stores around here, but we have a huge walmart. Go figure.

Wow! Am I glad I don't have kids!
I'll just run out and give this Peterbilt a tune up.

'don't judge a bipolar by it's cover'