My favorite kinds of projects are easy and affordable. If they don’t even involve a trip to the craft store, that’s even better. I also like open-ended projects. By that I mean projects that can be expanded on, projects that don’t have to be done an exact precise way to work.
Beaded bookmarks are that kind of project. And what’s more, they are actually quite beautiful. You will need a length of ribbon, or string, or yarn. The ribbon or string should be thin enough so that kids can slide beads on. I like to use the cord sold for friendship bracelets, but embroidery thread and leftover Christmas ribbons work, too. Cut the string or ribbon to be about six inches longer than a book is tall. On both ends of the ribbon string a few leftover beads, or tie on a few charms. To keep the beads from sliding up the ribbon you will need to make a knot. Make sure your knots are close enough to the ends so that the ribbon can still lay flat within the book. Once you have strung on your beads, tie another knot to keep the beads from sliding off.
Kids love making these simple bookmarks. If you want to make them extra special, you can buy new beads and charms. We usually have things leftover from other projects. If the kids want to give these as gifts, consider buying some alphabet charms. These make great small gifts for friends, teachers, and any book lover. If you have alphabet letter beads, the kids can spell the gift recipients name, or make a saying like “read good books”.
Another great thing about this project is that the string doubles as a needle, so you don’t have to hand out sharp needles to the kids. Do of course exercise caution with small children and beads.
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