Super Cute & Easy Back-to-School Corner Bookmarks: Scrap Fabric Tutorial

Back-to-school season is upon us, and while new pencils and notebooks are exciting, let's face it – even the most organized student can benefit from a little extra help keeping their place. This year, ditch the boring, generic bookmarks and add a splash of personality to your reading routine with these super cute and incredibly easy corner bookmarks! Made from scraps of fabric, these delightful little creations are a perfect project for crafters of all skill levels, offering a fun and rewarding way to personalize your study supplies.

These adorable corner bookmarks are not only charming additions to your books, but also a fantastic opportunity to upcycle leftover fabric scraps. Forget expensive store-bought bookmarks; you'll be surprised at how quickly and easily you can whip up a batch of these personalized page-savers. Ready to dive into the fun? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions below!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Iron
  • Ironing board
  • Ruler (2.5 inch)
  • Sewing machine
  • Pins
  • Optional: Flatter (ironing aid), Chopsticks
Safety Guidelines
  • Adult supervision is required, especially when using scissors and hot glue.
  • Always wash and pre-treat scrap fabrics before crafting to remove any potential allergens or irritants.
  • Ensure all edges are properly secured to prevent fraying and potential hazards for young children.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare Fabric

    • Cut three 2.5-inch squares of fabric (one front, one back, one for the triangle flap).
    • use an ironing aid like Flatter for easier pressing)
    Press the fabric squares flat using an iron. (Optional: use an ironing aid like Flatter for easier pressing)Press the fabric squares flat using an iron. (Optional: use an ironing aid like Flatter for easier pressing)
    Prepare Fabric
  2. Assemble Layers

    • Fold one square in half diagonally, creating a triangle. Place this triangle on top of one of the other squares, aligning the corners. Place the remaining square on top, wrong side facing up.
    • Pin the layers together, ensuring all raw edges are aligned at one corner.
    Pin the layers together, ensuring all raw edges are aligned at one corner. Pin the layers together, ensuring all raw edges are aligned at one corner.
    Assemble Layers
  3. Sew the Bookmark

    • Sew around all four sides of the layered squares with a 1/8-inch seam allowance. Leave a small gap (about half an inch) along one side for turning.
    Sew around all four sides of the layered squares with a 1/8-inch seam allowance. Leave a small gap (about half an inch) along one side for turning.
    Sew the Bookmark
  4. Turn and Shape

    • Turn the bookmark right side out. Use a chopstick or similar tool to help push out the corners for a crisp finish.
    • Press the bookmark flat, ensuring all seams are neatly pressed.
    Press the bookmark flat, ensuring all seams are neatly pressed. Press the bookmark flat, ensuring all seams are neatly pressed.
    Turn and Shape
  5. Finish and Clean Up

    • Topstitch all around the bookmark, closing the opening you left for turning.
    • Trim any excess threads.
    Trim any excess threads.Trim any excess threads.
    Finish and Clean Up

Read more: Sew a Lined Expandable Storage Bag: Easy Tutorial

Tips

  • Use your scrappiest, most colorful fabrics for a fun, unique look!
  • A small seam allowance (1/8 inch) minimizes bulk.
  • Use a chopstick to create sharp corners when turning the bookmark right side out.
  • Consider adding a personalized touch with hand stitching, such as initials or a small design.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Fabric Cuts

Reason: Inconsistent cutting leads to wobbly, unprofessional-looking bookmarks.
Solution: Use sharp scissors and a ruler for precise cuts, ensuring all sides are the same length.

2. Too Much or Too Little Glue

Reason: Too much glue creates a messy, stiff bookmark; too little results in weak, loose seams.
Solution: Apply a thin, even layer of fabric glue, allowing for a secure bond without excess.

FAQs