ONE SHEET, MANY CHAPTERS
How to Fold a Paper Corner Bookmark
A corner bookmark slips over a page instead of hanging out of a book. This version starts with one square of paper and closes with tucked folds, so there is no glue to dry. Try it with an unprinted scrap first; once the folds make sense, use a sheet with a small geometric pattern or a color you enjoy. The aim is a neat, light pocket that moves easily between pages without pressing a thick ridge into the book.
Start with your materials ↓
WHAT TO GATHER
Your starting kit.
- One square of paper, approximately 15 × 15 cm
- A flat surface
- A ruler or the back of a spoon for smoothing folds
STEP 01
Start with a triangle
Set the square down as a diamond. Fold the bottom point to the top point, matching the corners, and smooth the long folded edge. If the paper has a decorative side, experiment on scrap to see which face you want outside.
STEP 02
Mark the side folds
Bring the left point of the triangle up to the top point and crease. Repeat with the right point. You now have a small diamond. Unfold both side points so the triangle lies flat again; the creases are your guides.
STEP 03
Open the pocket
Fold only the front layer of the top point down until its tip meets the middle of the long bottom edge. Leave the back layer standing. This flap creates the opening into which the side points will tuck.
STEP 04
Tuck the corners
Refold the right point up along its crease. Fold its upper tip down and tuck it inside the pocket behind the front flap. Repeat on the left. Ease the paper into place instead of forcing a bulky corner through the opening.
STEP 05
Try it on a page
Slide the pocket gently over a page corner. If it catches, take it off and reopen the pocket slightly. Keep added decoration thin, avoid wet inks against book pages, and use the bookmark only after any surface coloring is fully dry.
Before you begin.
Can I use wrapping paper?
Yes, if it is clean, reasonably sturdy, and not glittery or heavily coated. Try a scrap before using a sheet you want to keep.
Why does the pocket spring open?
Check that both side tips are tucked behind the front flap. Smooth the creases gently and try slightly thinner paper if the folds are crowded.
Original editorial project guidance. Images are AI-generated concepts, not photographs of tested finished projects. Practice on inexpensive materials and follow tool and material instructions. Sources & approach.
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