Danger, like everything else, is relative.
I finally did what I've wanted to do for a long time - re-purpose an old book. I bought one on flower arranging for 50 cents from the library book sale. I tore out about a fourth of the pages, gessoed some of them up, and I'm now playing in it. I'm working in acrylics and because the page already starts a bit messy looking, its easier to stay loose and have more fun. I'm thinking it will be a good place to work on ideas for larger or more refined pieces, and also to experiment with techniques. Here's what the book looks like:
Note the message to self that I'm still in the process of coloring - "It's okay to play." Something I don't do enough of. Something I will try to do more often.