How to Make Bookmarks Out of Used Books

Paperbacks with especially interesting covers include science fiction, romance and children's books.

Making bookmarks is a fun, easy way to personalize your love of reading. Homemade bookmarks also make thoughtful gifts that recipients can enjoy again and again as they crack open their current reads. While the materials available to make your own bookmark range as wide as your imagination, making one out of a used book is particularly fitting for a bookworm who has a favorite book, author or genre. And unlike typical bookmarks, yours can be any size or shape you like. Be sure to pick a paperback book so any book can easily close around it.

Things You'll Need

• Used paperback
• Pencil
• Scissors
• Laminating machine and supplies
• Ribbon/Embroidery floss/Tassel
• Single hole puncher

Instructions

1. Browse through your local library's used paperback sale section. You can also try any thrift store or used bookstore, but libraries often sell books for less than a thrift store and significantly less than a used bookstore.

2. Select one or two paperbacks with colorful designs, unique pictures or meaningful titles to you. Older books often sport interesting retro or vintage designs. Be sure the books have few, if any, creases or tears.

3. Measure the desired width of your bookmark with a ruler or use another bookmark as a template to trace around. You can also follow an interesting shape on the cover, like a spaceship or kitten. Cut whatever shape you choose.

4. Laminate the bookmark. A hot laminator will generally produce a more durable product than a cold laminator. Premium laminating films will enhance images and seal together better, but there are many other types to choose from that offer different advantages.

5. Punch a hole at the top of the bookmark.

6. Thread a colorful piece of ribbon, a tassel or a few braided strands of embroidery floss through the hole and knot these in place. You can find any of these items at a large fabric store. You now have an easy way of finding your bookmark.

Tips & Warnings

• Make the bookmark two-sided by adhering part of a page from your used book or an entirely different book cover to the backside. Add design and texture variety by gluing a piece of eye-popping fabric to the back of the book cover. You don't need to buy fabric for such a small area; instead, use a worn T-shirt or pillowcase. Rubber cement works well for binding fabric to card stock.

References

• Laminators.com: Types of Laminators -- Overview
• Laminators.com: Choosing the Right Lamination -- Hot Lamination