I love bookmarks! I can't have enough! I don't know how I am always losing them but I am and I always need more. Like with the knotted scarves, I have a habit of buying things just to take them apart and see how I can make them myself. I paid $6 on Etsy for one beaded ribbon bookmark just like the ones I am going to show you how to make.
The cost of the pins, jump rings and ribbon clamps is mere pennies per piece. Beads can vary in cost. I am going to guess that I used 50 cents worth of beads per bookmark plus 15 cents for the ribbon. Total cost = < $1.
The tools that I used included needle nose pliers, scissors and a lighter. There are jewelry pliers but these are just from my husband's tool box. The lighter is for sealing the ends of the ribbon. Two quick swipes through the flame is all it needs.
Cut a piece of ribbon about 10 inches long. After you have heat sealed the end of the ribbon to prevent fraying, fold over about 1/8th of an inch and insert into clamp with teeth facing back side of ribbon. Use pliers to squeeze clamp tightly closed.
Place beads onto pin. With pliers, open jump ring and attach to loop at end of ribbon clamp. Squeeze back into closed circle. You can also used the jump ring to attach charms.
I thought this ABC ribbon would be perfect for a teacher.
I think the details on the ends are what really make these bookmarks special.
Unless it's a stocking stuffer, I tend to give books along with the handcrafted bookmarks.
32 Third Graders and One Class bunny is a hysterical book where teacher Phillip Done recounts classroom stories. It is perfect for a teacher and also for any mom who wonders what goes on in the classroom when she's not around.
The Saints Guide to Happiness is a wonderful book for Catholic friends, family, teachers, etc... There are short life lessons that identify with a specific Saint. This is the kind of book you pick up when you need a little uplifting and doesn't require hours of reading on end.
Moloka'i is based on a true story taking place in a Leper colony on the Hawaiian Island of Moloka'i. This book is well written and intriguing. Every one I know of that has read this has really enjoyed it but it is not super well known. So it is a pretty safe bet that the recipient of your gift doesn't own it yet.
There you go, bookmarks for less than $1 and plenty of time to find these books or others on sale will get you a head start on the Christmas rush.
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Lovely bookmarks. I didn't know there was such a thing as ribbon clamps so I am going to head out to Michael's soon to track them down. This wil be perfect project for a group of friends I get together with to craft and chat and often discuss books!
Posted by: janice | July 16, 2011 at 09:51 PM
These are amazing! I also didn't know about ribbon clamps. Another thing to add to my craft store shopping list. Thanks!
Posted by: Kim | July 18, 2011 at 02:20 PM
Great idea! And every year, I say I'm going to start making handmade Christmas gifts in the summer. Thanks for reminding me it's time to start that!
Posted by: Leah | July 19, 2011 at 03:22 PM
I'm so grateful that you linked up in this week's Creative Bloggers' Party & Hop :) This awesome post totally rocked the party!
Posted by: SJ @ Homemaker On A Dime | July 19, 2011 at 04:45 PM
Following you with GFC, I love Christmas in July! Thanks for linking to Bacon Time, hope to see you again this week.
Posted by: mindie | July 21, 2011 at 03:03 PM