Making your own fabric bookmarks is such a fun and practical sewing project, especially if you’re just starting out or looking for a quick craft. They don’t take much fabric, they’re beginner-friendly, and they make thoughtful little gifts for friends, teachers, or book lovers in your life.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the supplies you’ll need, simple step-by-step instructions, and even a corner bookmark variation so you can create unique designs every time.
Supplies You Will Need to Sew a Bookmark
Okay, so you want to make some bookmarks! Awesome. I’ve found that gathering all my stuff before I start makes the whole process way smoother. Here’s what I usually grab when I’m making handmade fabric bookmarks.
- Fabric: Scraps are perfect! Cotton, linen, or even felt work great. Just make sure it’s not too flimsy. I like to use two different fabrics for each bookmark to make them more interesting.
- Interfacing: This gives the bookmark some structure. I usually go for a lightweight fusible interfacing.
- Thread: Pick a color that complements your fabric. I like to use a contrasting color for the topstitching to make it pop.
- Sewing Machine: Obviously! But a needle and thread work too, if you’re feeling ambitious.
- Scissors or Rotary Cutter: For cutting your fabric neatly. A rotary cutter and mat make things super quick.
- Ruler or Measuring Tape: To make sure your bookmark is the right size.
- Iron: For pressing your fabric and fusing the interfacing.
- Pins or Clips: To hold everything in place while you sew.
- Turning Tool: A chopstick or point turner is super helpful for getting those corners nice and crisp after you turn the bookmark right side out.
- Optional: Embellishments! Think ribbon, lace, buttons, or even small tassels. These are great for adding a personal touch and making sewing gift bookmarks extra special. You could even use carbon transfer paper for fabric and a pen to trace a design onto the fabric before sewing.
With these supplies, you’ll be all set to create some fun and creative bookmark designs!
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Sew a Bookmark
Step 1: Cut fabric pieces and interfacing
Okay, first things first, let’s get our materials prepped. I usually start by cutting two pieces of fabric to the same size. For a standard bookmark, I like to go with something around 2 inches wide and 6 inches long, but honestly, it’s all about personal preference.
Feel free to adjust the dimensions to whatever suits your fancy. Then, I cut a piece of interfacing slightly smaller than the fabric – this will give the bookmark some structure. This is a great beginner sewing project for bookmarks, so don’t worry too much about perfection!
Step 2: Fuse interfacing to fabric
Next up, ironing! I place the interfacing on the wrong side of one of the fabric pieces and fuse it using an iron, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
This step is important because it adds stiffness and prevents the bookmark from being too floppy. It also makes the DIY fabric bookmark more durable. Make sure the interfacing is centered for the best results.
Step 3: Place fabric pieces right sides together
Now, I put the two fabric pieces right sides together, making sure all the edges line up nicely. If you’re feeling fancy, you could even pin them together to prevent any shifting while sewing.
This step is crucial for ensuring that the seams are on the inside when you turn the bookmark right side out. This is where the magic happens in this sewing bookmark tutorial.
Step 4: Stitch around edges, leaving a small gap
Time to sew! I stitch around all the edges of the bookmark using a sewing machine, leaving a small gap (about 2-3 inches) on one of the sides. This gap is essential because it’s how we’ll turn the bookmark right side out later.
I usually use a ¼ inch seam allowance, but again, it’s not an exact science. Remember to backstitch at the beginning and end of your stitching to secure the seams. If you’re looking for fabric bookmark ideas, consider using contrasting thread for a fun pop of color.
Step 5: Trim corners and turn right side out
Before turning, I trim the corners of the bookmark to reduce bulk. This helps create sharper, cleaner corners when you turn it right side out. Be careful not to cut too close to the stitching!
Then, I carefully turn the bookmark right side out through the gap we left earlier. A chopstick or turning tool can be super helpful for pushing out the corners and getting a nice, crisp edge. This is also a great way to learn how to sew felt bookmarks.
Step 6: Press and topstitch all around
Almost there! I press the bookmark with an iron to flatten the seams and give it a professional finish. Then, I fold in the raw edges of the gap and press them as well. Finally, I topstitch all around the edges of the bookmark, closing the gap in the process.
Topstitching not only looks nice but also adds extra durability. For a quilted bookmark DIY, you could add some quilting stitches at this stage. And there you have it – a handmade bookmark ready to mark your place in your favorite book!
If you want to try an applique bookmark tutorial, this is the perfect time to add your design before the final topstitch. These easy sewing crafts bookmarks make great gifts, too!
How to Sew a Corner Bookmark
Okay, so you want to know how to sew a corner bookmark? I get it! They’re super cute and a fun way to use up fabric scraps.
Plus, they’re a bit different than the standard bookmark. I’ve found them to be pretty quick to make, once I got the hang of it. The trick is getting the angles right so it fits snugly on the corner of the page.
I don’t have any specific sub-steps for this section, but I can tell you that the basic idea is to create a triangle-shaped pocket that slips over the corner of a page.
You’ll need to cut two fabric pieces in the shape of a square (or a right triangle, if you’re feeling fancy), sew them together, leaving an opening, turn them right side out, and then close the opening.
You can add interfacing to give it some structure, just like with the regular bookmark. I like to use fun prints for these, or even embroider a little design on them before sewing them all together. It’s a great way to personalize them!
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of fabric should I use for my bookmark?
I’ve found that cotton fabric works best for these bookmarks. It’s easy to work with and holds its shape well. You can also try other fabrics like linen or even felt, but make sure they’re not too flimsy.
Can I add decorations or embellishments to my fabric bookmark?
Absolutely! Adding a tassel, some ribbon, or even a small charm can make your bookmark extra special. I like to sew a little loop of ribbon into the top seam before turning it right side out, so I can easily attach a tassel later.
Is this a good project for using fabric scraps?
Yes, this project is perfect for using up those smaller pieces of fabric you have lying around. I often use scraps that are at least 3 inches wide and 7 inches tall. It’s a great way to avoid waste and create unique designs.
Is this sewing project too hard for someone new to sewing?
Not at all! This project is designed for beginners. The main stitches are straight lines, which are super easy to master. If you can sew a straight line, you can definitely make this bookmark.
Do I need to iron my fabric when making a bookmark?
Ironing the fabric and interfacing before you start, and pressing your seams as you go, makes a huge difference. It helps everything lay flat and gives your bookmark a neat, professional look.
Are these bookmarks good for gifts?
These fabric bookmarks make wonderful gifts! I’ve made them for teachers, as party favors, and even as little additions to books I’m giving to friends. They’re quick to make in batches, too.
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