reading with my mom: Book Craft Corner

Well, I'm going to get all crafty now. My last blog inspired me to share two easy craft projects with you. I made two unique bookmarks for my mom, and wanted to show you how to make them. I'm sure I've made many more over the years, but these ones were extra special. In fact,Iam going to make my girls the first one...right now.

Project 1 - Paper Quotation Bookmark

Step 1.

I am always inspired by quotations. I search them out when I write a card for someone. When I add a quotation to my own sentiments the card feels complete. So, the first step is to search out a great, relevant quotation. When searching for quotations I always consult a couple of books I have and the web (I'll list my sources in the side panel). Since I will be putting this quotation on a bookmark...looking for a book quotationseems appropriate. I found that this one and love it for my daughter's bookmark. "The more you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go." Dr. Seuss

Step 2.

Search for an image to accompany your quotation. This could be a drawing, photo or free clip art from the web. In this case I chose a tree with books as leaves. Seemed fitting. (again sources on the side panel).

Step 3.

Copy & paste your quotation and image into a document using your word processing program. Align the image and the quotation so they read as a bookmark does, leaving enough room for a hole where you will put your ribbon. When you have finished playing with the positioning and the font style/size...print the bookmark. You can use whatever paper you like, however thicker papers, or cardstock work the best.

Step 4.

Once printed punch a hole in the one end of your bookmark. Select a piece of ribbon, approximately 12" long. In my case I also tied two bird shaped beads to the ends of the ribbon. Remember, this ribbon will be visible from outside of the book...make it beautiful.

Step 5.

Once you have selected and cut your ribbon it is time to feed it through the hole. Fold the ribbon in half (lengthwise), push the fold through the hole. Once pushed through feed the open ends through the loop you have created...pull. Ta Da! Your bookmark is complete. Remember when giving a bookmark...give a book too!!

Project 2 - Beaded Bookmark

Step 1.

This bookmark requires a little research. Check out your recipients book collection. Do they tend to read paperbacks or hardcovers? This will determine the length of the bookmark you make. Once you know what size the books are cut a piece of ribbon, string or waxed thread (used in making jewelry) to the length of the average book - plus about 4 inches on each end. These 4" will give you plenty of thread to work on your beading, which will hang outside of the book.

Step 2.

Select the beads you want to use. My mom loved blue...so blue beads were in order.

Step 3.

Tie a knot in your thread, 4" from one end, then feed a pattern of beads on and knot at the end. Do the same with the other end of the thread. Between these two beaded ends, you should have a large portion of thread that is void of beads...this section will be inside the book, allowing the book to close without obstruction.