Book Buddy Bookmark
Great way to use those single beads from a single or coordinating color family - handmade bookmarks! You can buy them at your local book chain for about $10, or make them for fractions of that price. Great stocking stuffer or small add on gift with a book!
Level: Easy
Materials
Cord - hemp, crochet, bead string, any heavier string that is fairly durable
Assorted beads of various sizes, shapes, colors (4-8 beads)
Yarn needle (thicker needle, blunt at both ends)
Directions
Cut a length of cord that will be about 6" longer than the books you normally read (i.e., paperback, hard cover, magazine). On one end, tie a strong overhand knot approximately 2cc from the end.
At the opposite end, string 1-3 (or more, depending on size and your tastes) beads, letting them fall all the way to the opposite knot. You should string a bead with a smaller hole first to ensure the knot won't slip through the bead. When you have as many beads as you'd like for that end of your bookmark, begin to tie a knot close to the bottom of the last bead, but don't tighten it. Slip the yarn needle into the knot, and pull the needle toward the bead. Your knot should slide with the needle until it is flush to the bead, then tighten it fully, remove the needle, and tighten the knot again.
String the additional beads on the cord. When you have as many as you want on the cord, tie an overhand knot at the end of the cord. Slide the loose beads back to the knot, and make your last knot in the same manner as your other "inside" knot: begin to tie a knot close to the bottom of the last bead, but don't tighten it. Slip the yarn needle into the knot, and pull the needle toward the bead. Your knot should slide with the needle until it is flush to the bead, then tighten it fully, remove the needle, and tighten the knot again.
You now have a unique, hand crafted bookmark that will last for many readings!
