How to Make Paper Bookmarks in 5 Steps

Readers know how important it is to track their progress in a book so they can easily return where they left off. But it’s annoying when you cannot find something and have to use a crumpled piece of paper or a dog-eared corner.

Hi, fellow bibliophiles! I am Priyanka from Hooked to Books, and today, I will dive into the world of DIY paper bookmarks. 

You can experiment and add your personal touch to make the bookmarks as creative as possible. I have listed all the materials you must gather and the steps to follow to create your own simple handmade bookmarks! 

Read this blog from start to finish to learn how to make paper bookmarks in 5 steps. Unleash your inner artist!

Materials Needed

Making a DIY bookmark needs some preparations. Just like repair work requires specific tools, the task of making a bookmark also needs some materials you must arrange before proceeding with steps to create. The items you will need are listed below. 

Base Material

• Cardstock: If you want an extra-durable bookmark, choose cardstock. It is thicker and has a smooth matte finish, suitable for people who are a little rough on their belongings. Cardstock comes in various colors and textures. Find it in a craft store and create bookmarks with intricate designs
• Construction Paper: Construction paper is the preferred choice for bookmarks. It is sturdy and comes in a wide variety of vibrant colors. You can easily find these papers in a craft store. These papers are inexpensive and available in large packs. 
• Decorative Paper: If you like to be fancy, decorative paper will be an ideal choice. Scrapbook is available in various patterns, designs, themes, etc. Wrapping paper and recycled paper bags are also good options. 

Cutting Tools

• Scissors: Have a good pair of scissors to cut the base material into desired shapes and sizes. Choose sharp scissors so they can handle both straight cuts and curved edges.
• Craft Punch: With craft punch, you can create unique tops or cut out small shapes to use as decorations. The handy tool is available in various shapes, such as hearts, flowers, stars, etc.

Decorative Supplies

• Markers and Crayons: You can use markers and crayons to draw designs, write quotes, or color on your bookmarks.
• Glue Stick: A glue stick is needed to paste embellishments. Get a glue stick that holds securely and dries properly.
• Stickers and Washi Tape: Beautify your bookmark by adding stickers and washi tape.

Finishing Touches

• Ribbon: To add a touch of elegance, thread a beautiful ribbon on your bookmark. Ribbons are available in various colors, widths, and materials.
• Lamination: To protect your bookmark and make it last longer, consider laminating it.

How to Make Paper Bookmarks in 5 Steps

So, now that you’ve gathered all the necessary materials let’s dive into the process of creating your own bookmark. Below, I have mentioned the steps you must follow to make bookmarks in 5 simple steps!

Step 1: Choose Base and Size

• Among the above-mentioned base materials, you can choose any one or more if making a lot of bookmarks. Either construction paper, cardstock, or decorative paper, all three are good and can be used to create unique bookmarks.
• A standard bookmark size is around 2 inches wide and 6 inches tall; however, you can customize the size according to your preference. Grab your ruler and scissors and begin measuring and cutting.
• You can also try making origami bookmarks. Watch some tutorials and make a cute origami bookmark!

Step 2: Let Out the Inner Artist

• Pick the markers and crayons and start drawing anything you want, such as flowers, abstract designs, favorite characters, animals, etc.
• You can also look for designs online or use pre-printed patterns.
• With fun lettering styles, you can write a motivational quote, your name, your favorite book line, and more!

Step 3: Punch It Up

• Use a craft punch to create cute little shape cutouts for your bookmark. You can choose any shape, such as hearts, butterflies, stars, and more. 
• By following the instructions given on your craft punch, you can punch out a shape from a separate piece of paper to use as an embellishment or from the bookmark to create designs.

Step 4: Assemble

• Now it is time to glue the embellishments on your bookmarks, whether it’s punch-out shapes, letters, or magazine clippings.
• Creative stickers can adorn your bookmark. Washi tapes are another decorative option for creating borders, stripes, or writing messages.

Step 5: The Finishing Touch

• Use a hole punch to make a small hole (wherever you want) in your bookmark.
• Choose a beautiful ribbon that suits your bookmark, cut it to your desired length, and thread it through the hole. Tie a knot or bow at the end.
• Choose a beautiful ribbon that suits your bookmark, cut it to your desired length, and thread it through the hole. Tie a knot or bow at the end. 
• These are some basic steps to make simple bookmarks, but if you want to beautify them more, experiment, mix, match, and let your inner creativity shine!

Customization Ideas

If you want to personalize your bookmark, these ideas will spark your imagination and transform your creation into a masterpiece.

• You can match your bookmark to the book you’re currently reading. For example, if you’re reading a fantasy novel, draw mythical creatures, landscapes, and castles.
• Make bookmarks according to holiday seasons, such as Christmas, Halloween, and Easter.
• You can also create bookmarks according to the seasons. With changing seasons, make new bookmarks like autumn-themed, winter-themed, and more.
• Origami designs are a popular choice for making bookmarks. Fold the paper into simple origami designs.
• You can also experiment with different materials by combining them to make an interesting bookmark.
• Using watercolors, create an ethereal effect by diluting paints and brushing them on the paper for a blended look.
• Rather than rectangular shapes, you can make a corner bookmark that stays tucked neatly into the corner of your page.
• You can also use various photos, lettering designs, quotes, and motivational messages to give a personal touch to your bookmark.

Wind-Up

Bookmarks are must-have items for readers. Having your own DIY bookmarks to use is a happy feeling, right? So, why don’t you make one?

I hope this post on how to make paper bookmarks was helpful. Simply grab the required materials and start making creative bookmarks.