🔖 Paper Bookmarks
DIY Paper Bookmarks: A Fun and Creative Craft for All Ages
In a world of digital reading, there’s still nothing quite like the feel of a physical book. And what better way to personalize your reading experience than with a handmade paper bookmark? Whether you’re a bookworm, a student, a teacher, or a parent looking for a fun craft activity, DIY paper bookmarks are an easy, affordable, and creative project.
In this post, we’ll walk you through how to make a variety of paper bookmarks, share material tips, design ideas, and even how to turn this craft into thoughtful gifts or small business products.
Why Make DIY Paper Bookmarks?
Bookmarks are one of the simplest paper crafts that anyone can do. They are:
- ✅ Easy for kids and beginners
- ✅ Budget-friendly
- ✅ Customizable for any occasion
- ✅ Useful as gifts, rewards, or personal keepsakes
Plus, they help reduce folding page corners — keeping books in great shape!
Materials You’ll Need
You likely already have most of these around the house:
Hole punch and ribbon or yarn (optional)
Colored cardstock or thick craft paper
Plain white paper or printed designs
Glue stick or double-sided tape
Scissors
Ruler and pencil
Markers, pens, crayons, or colored pencils
Stickers, washi tape, glitter, or decorative items (optional)
Basic Paper Bookmark Size
A standard bookmark is around:
- 2 inches wide x 6 inches long (5 cm x 15 cm)
But you can always customize your size based on the book, design, or age group making it.
How to Make Paper Bookmarks – Step-by-Step
Let’s start with the basic rectangular paper bookmark:
Step 1: Cut Your Base
- Cut a rectangle from cardstock or thick paper (approx. 2” x 6”).
- If you’re using plain white paper, you can glue it onto colored cardstock for a two-tone effect.
Step 2: Design Your Bookmark
Here comes the fun part — decorating!
Try: Doodles or patterns
Quotes or reading slogans like “Books are magic” or “Just one more chapter”
Draw your favorite book characters
Colorful geometric shapes
Use pens, markers, colored pencils, or even paint for bold looks.
Step 3: Add Embellishments (Optional)
- Use stickers, washi tape, or paper cutouts to add layers and texture.
- Add glitter, sequins, or mini gems for sparkle.
- Laminate the final piece for a long-lasting, glossy bookmark.
Step 4: Punch and Tie (Optional)
- Use a hole punch at the top center and tie a ribbon, twine, or tassel for a stylish finish.
- You can even add a paper charm or bead to the ribbon.
Step 5: Let It Dry & Use!
If you’ve used glue or paint, allow the bookmark to dry completely before placing it in a book.
6 Creative Bookmark Design Ideas
Looking for something beyond rectangles? Here are some cool variations:
1. Corner Bookmarks
These triangle-shaped bookmarks slip over the corner of the page and are super fun to make.
How to make:
- Fold a square paper diagonally into a triangle.
- Fold the bottom corners up to meet the top corner.
- Tuck the corners inside the flap and decorate the front.
- Great for making animals, emojis, or monster faces!
2. Animal Bookmarks
Cut your bookmark into shapes like:
- 🐱 Cats
- 🦉 Owls
- 🦊 Foxes
- 🐼 Pandas
Add ears, eyes, and facial features using colored paper or markers.
3. Origami Bookmarks
Use origami techniques to fold bookmarks into hearts, stars, or flowers. They’re flat and beautiful!
4. Quote Bookmarks
Print or handwrite inspiring quotes about reading, learning, or kindness. Great as classroom gifts!
Example: “A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies.” – George R.R. Martin
5. Themed Bookmarks
Make bookmarks that match the season or event:
- 🎃 Halloween: pumpkins, ghosts
- 🎄 Christmas: trees, gifts
- 💖 Valentine’s: hearts, love notes
- 🎓 Back to school: pencils, books
6. Photo Bookmarks
Print out mini photos of family, pets, or kids and glue them to the bookmark base. Laminate for durability. These make excellent gifts for parents and grandparents!
Paper Bookmarks for Kids: A Great Classroom Craft
Teachers and parents love bookmark-making as a creative, screen-free activity.
Benefits for kids:
- Improves fine motor skills (cutting, coloring)
- Boosts creativity
- Teaches personalization and pride in their work
- Encourages reading!
You can also make:
- Reading challenge bookmarks (with boxes to check off)
- Reward bookmarks (for good behavior or achievements)
- Birthday bookmarks as party favors
🎁 Bookmark Gift Ideas
DIY paper bookmarks make thoughtful, low-cost gifts for:
- Teachers
- Classmates
- Book club members
- Librarians
- Friends
- Party return favors
Bundle them with a book or add them to greeting cards for an extra personal touch.
