How to Make Paper Bookmarks

Creating paper cutout bookmarks is an easy and simple craft project for kids or adults. Bookmarks can be made in the classroom, library or home. Additionally, paper bookmarks can be packaged in colorful cellophane tied with a grosgrain ribbon for a thoughtful holiday gift.

Things You'll Need

• 8 1/2- x 11-inch card stock in various colors
• Scrap card stock and patterned paper
• Scissors
• Ruler
• Black fine-tip Sharpie
• Rubber cement
• Scrap paper
• Pencil

Instructions

1. Prepare bookmark ideas by drawing scenes on scrap paper with pencil. Bookmark designs will be created from various paper shapes to create paper cut-out bookmarks. Draw basic landscape or nature scenes. If necessary, use outside resources such as books or Internet images to create pictures. When it comes to paper cut outs, the simpler the image the better. A few ideas for scenes include the following:

   stars and moon
   sea with fish and seaweed
   blue sky with clouds and butterflies or dragonflies
   desert with cactus and sun
   dog with bones and dog house
   cat with fish bones and fish

2. Once design is drawn, cut card stock into 2 1/2-x 8-inch strips. Each strip represents a separate bookmark. Cut simple shapes out of paper and use rubber cement to attach to the strip. Use patterned or shiny card stock scraps to add interest; other ideas include using a monochromatic color scheme or using two different colors for a bold, mod look.

3. Using the Sharpie, outline some of the shapes for emphasis. Dotted lines or solid lines work well for making areas "pop" in paper cutout designs.