How to Make an Origami Bookmark That Will Get Kids Excited to Read

I love finding fun, simple origami projects for kids. Whether it be folding paper planes (like these Star Wars Folded Flyers from Klutz), boats to float in a puddle, or these origami bookmarks, folding paper is an activity that encourages school-aged kids to slow down and concentrate — after all, they must carefully follow a series of step-by-step instructions in order to successfully complete their project.

This corner bookmark is simple to make, requiring just five folds, but children may require guidance or assistance — especially the first time they try it out. Be guided by the age and capability of your child to determine how much support he needs.

Once it’s folded, the bookmark can be decorated with almost anything: your child might like to create an animal, a monster, her favorite food or book character  — or she can simply add her name or a word that inspires her.

How to Make an Origami Bookmark

You Will Need

• Squares of paper. Around 6” is a good size but you can make your bookmarks a little larger or smaller if you wish.
• Markers, stickers, paper scraps for decoration
• Glue

What to Do 

Step 1: Lay a square of paper on the table top in a diamond position. 

Step 2: Invite your child to fold the diamond in half, taking the bottom corner to the top to form a triangle.

Step 3: With the triangle pointing up, he can then take the bottom left point up to meet the center point at the top and crease firmly. Glue in place.

Step 4: Repeat with the right corner. The paper should now be a smaller, folded diamond.

Step 5: Flip the diamond over.

Step 6: Taking the top layer of paper only, invite your child to fold the bottom point up to the top point and crease and then unfold.

Step 7: She will then fold the same point under, tucking it into the pocket formed as she gently squeezes the outer corners.

Step 8: Show your child how to slide the completed bookmark onto the corner of his favorite book so he'll never lose his place again!

For more fun, DIY projects for your book lover and artist, try creating a cute puppy pal bookmark or a printed pointillism bookmark.