There’s something magical about combining the beauty of nature with the joy of reading. If you’re a book lover who also adores flowers, these pressed flower bookmarks are the perfect way to bring the two together. Not only are they easy to make, but they also make thoughtful, personalized gifts for fellow bookworms.
In this tutorial, I’ll walk you through the simple steps to create your own pressed flower bookmarks. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a complete beginner, this project is sure to inspire you
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What You Will Need:
Materials for this Project
- Plain bookmarks (I used a set of white and brown paper bookmarks from Amazon).
- Pressed flowers and ferns (you can buy pressed flowers & ferns too).
- Rice paper (for adding texture to the brown bookmarks).
- Mod Podge .
- Peel-and-stick laminate sheets.
- Leather cord or tassel material.
- Scissors
- Tweezers (for handling delicate flowers)
- Paper Hole Reinforcements (optional)
Why Make Pressed Flower Bookmarks?
Pressed flower bookmarks are more than just pretty—they’re practical, meaningful, and full of charm. Here’s why I love making them:
- Easy and Beginner-Friendly: You don’t need any special skills to create these bookmarks.
- Affordable and Customizable: Use flowers from your garden or local florist to make each bookmark unique.
- Perfect for Gifting: They’re a thoughtful handmade gift for book clubs, birthdays, or holidays
Step-by-Step Tutorial
In this project, we’ll be creating stunning pressed flower bookmarks that are as functional as they are beautiful. The process is simple and beginner-friendly, making it perfect for crafters of all skill levels.
We’ll start by preparing plain paper bookmarks, adding a strip of rice paper for texture , and then arranging pressed flowers and ferns on top. Using Mod Podge, we’ll carefully adhere the flowers to the bookmarks before sealing them with peel-and-stick laminate for durability.
Finally, we’ll add a leather cord tassel to give each bookmark a polished, finished look. With just a few supplies and a little creativity, you’ll have a set of unique, nature-inspired bookmarks that are perfect for keeping or gifting.
1. Prepare Your Materials
Gather your pressed flowers, bookmarks, and other supplies. I would suggest putting newspaper or kraft paper down on your work surface to protect it.
It’s nice to have a variety of flowers to create a set of unique bookmarks . I am using flowers that I have pressed myself but I did buy the pressed ferns to use.
2. Add Rice Paper
If you’re using rice paper, cut a strip of rice paper to fit the center of the bookmark. This adds a lovely texture and contrast to the design.
To do this I used a bookmark as a guide to cut out a section of rice paper to the same size. Then, I gently tore the edges on all four sides to create a rough, natural look and make the rice paper slightly smaller than the bookmark.
3. Arrange and Glue the Flowers
- Using a small paintbrush apply Mod Podge to the bookmark to adhere each flower.
- Use tweezers to place the pressed flowers and ferns on the bookmark.
- Dab on more Mod Podge to keep the flower in place.
- Tip: If any stems hang over the edges of your bookmark, let the Mod Podge dry before trimming off the excess.
- Experiment with different layouts and designs.
- Let it dry, then add a second light layer of Mod Podge over the entire front of the bookmark. Be gentle so the flowers don’t tear.
- Let the bookmarks completely dry before moving on.
4. (Optional) Add Hole Reinforcement Labels
This step is optional, but I did add metallic hole reinforcement labels to the bookmarks. It doesn’t matter if you do this before or after doing the laminating (I tried it both ways).
5. Laminate the Bookmarks
- Cut the peel-and-stick laminate sheets slightly larger than the bookmark.
- Carefully apply the laminate to the front and back of the bookmark, smoothing out any air bubbles as you go.
- Trim the excess laminate for a clean, polished finish.
6. Add the Tassel
- Punch a small hole at the top of the bookmark through the laminate (I used the point of my scissors.
- Thread a piece of leather cord through the hole. You can either:
- Double up the cord, run it through from the back, and slip the ends through the loop to secure it.
- Or, simply run the cord through the hole and tie a knot at the top.
- Once your bookmarks are complete, they should lie flat and smooth. If they curl or don’t lie flat after laminating, simply place them under a heavy book for a few hours. This will help them flatten out and stay perfectly straight for use.
Finished Pressed Flower Bookmarks
Tips for Success
- Use flowers that are flat and dry for the best results.
- Experiment with different color combinations and layouts.
- Let each layer of Mod Podge dry completely before moving on to the next step.
- If you bookmarks aren’t lying flat after you are finished, put them under a heavy book for a few hours.
Creative Variations
- Seasonal Bookmarks: Use flowers and foliage that match the season (e.g., pansies for Spring, leaves for Fall).
- Themed Bookmarks: Create bookmarks inspired by favorite books or genres (e.g., wildflowers for a nature-themed book).
- Personalized Bookmarks: Add initials or quotes using calligraphy stamps, or stickers.
FAQs About Pressed Flower Bookmarks
- How long do pressed flower bookmarks last?
- With proper lamination, they can last for years.
- Can I use store-bought pressed flowers?
- Yes, but pressing your own adds a personal touch.
- What’s the best way to clean the bookmarks?
- Wipe them gently with a dry cloth to avoid damaging the flowers.
- Can I use other materials instead of laminate?
- Yes, try clear contact paper works too!
Now It’s Your Turn!
Pressed flower bookmarks are such a nice way to combine the beauty of nature with the joy of reading. Whether you’re making them for yourself, your book club, or as thoughtful handmade gifts, these bookmarks are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. The best part? They’re easy to create, customizable, and perfect for crafters of all skill levels.
So grab your pressed flowers, gather your supplies, and start crafting! I can’t wait to see what you create. Don’t forget to share your beautiful bookmarks with me —I’d love to see your designs and hear how your project turned out.
Happy Crafting, and Happy Reading!
See your projects featured! If you were inspired by this or any of my other DIY projects I would love to see them and add you to the Reader’s Spotlight gallery. Send a photo to me at jennifer@cottageonbunkerhill.com
xo, Jennifer
Love pressed flowers & looking for another project to try? Check out the pretty vases that I made!
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These are just adorable. I’m sharing on Sunday.
Thanks Rachel!