Whether you’re a book lover, a student, or someone who just appreciates the small joy of saving your place in a story, a well-made bookmark is both practical and personal. Making your own bookmark can be easy, fun, and a great creative outlet. In this post, we explore multiple ways to make a bookmark — from the basic to the artistic — with ideas suited for kids, teens, and adults alike.
✂️ Common WATs (Ways, Approaches, Techniques) to Make a Bookmark
1. 🧾
Paper Cutout Bookmarks
(The Classic DIY)
What You Need:
- Thick paper or cardstock
- Scissors
- Hole punch (optional)
- Ribbon or twine (optional)
- Markers, stickers, or paint
Steps:
- Cut the paper into rectangles (2” x 6” is a standard size).
- Decorate with your favorite colors, quotes, or doodles.
- Punch a hole at the top and tie a ribbon for flair.
Tip: Laminate it (or cover in transparent tape) for durability!
2. 📌
Magnetic Bookmarks
(Great for Notebooks and Journals)
What You Need:
- Magnetic sheets or small fridge magnets
- Cardstock
- Glue
Steps:
- Fold the cardstock in half (small square or rectangle).
- Glue a magnet inside each end.
- Decorate the outside with designs, prints, or even stickers.
Result: A smart bookmark that clips onto the page without falling out!
3. 📐
Origami Corner Bookmarks
What You Need:
- Origami paper or regular paper cut into squares (around 4” x 4”)
- Markers for decorating
Steps:
- Fold into a triangle and tuck corners into the pocket (search “origami corner bookmark tutorial” for visual guides).
- Decorate it as a monster, animal face, emoji, or galaxy scene!
Fun for: Kids’ crafts, classroom activities, or themed reading events.
4. 🌿
Pressed Flower Bookmarks
What You Need:
- Dried flowers or leaves
- Cardstock or recycled cardboard
- Transparent laminate sheets or contact paper
Steps:
- Arrange dried flowers on the card.
- Seal with transparent contact paper or laminate.
- Trim edges and add a hole punch and string if desired.
Why Try It? It’s eco-friendly, visually stunning, and unique every time.
5. 🎨
Painted or Doodled Acrylic Bookmarks
What You Need:
- Transparent acrylic bookmark blanks (available online)
- Acrylic markers or paint pens
- Keychain rings or tassels
Steps:
- Paint directly onto the clear surface.
- Use metallic or glow-in-the-dark markers for effect.
- Finish with a tassel for style.
Pro Tip: These make lovely handmade gifts!
6. 🧵
Fabric or Felt Bookmarks
What You Need:
- Fabric scraps or felt
- Needle and thread or hot glue
- Scissors
Steps:
- Cut the fabric into your preferred shape.
- Embroider initials or designs (or glue on decorations).
- Optional: Insert cardboard inside to stiffen the bookmark.
Perfect for: A cozy, tactile, and reusable bookmark experience.
7. 🔍
Tech-Savvy Bookmarks (For E-Book Lovers)
Okay, not a physical bookmark—but you can get creative here too:
- Create custom e-book “bookmarks” using screenshots or notes.
- Design your own digital bookmark graphics using free design tools like Canva.
- Upload them to your Kindle lockscreen or use them as phone wallpapers for themed reading reminders!
💡 BONUS: Bookmark Ideas for Kids
- Pop-up bookmarks: Add folded paper elements that pop when opened.
- Puzzle piece bookmarks: Recycle old puzzle pieces into quirky bookmark shapes.
- Glow bookmarks: Add glow-in-the-dark paint or stickers.
🎁 Custom-Made Bookmarks? Yes, That Too
If DIY isn’t your thing, or you’re looking for something that feels a bit more polished or personal — like bookmarks featuring your favorite characters, quotes, or artwork — you can always get customized bookmarks made just for you.
Explore handmade and customized bookmark options on The3DPenguin.in — where creativity meets craftsmanship.