Ribbon and Magnetic Bookmark Craft

A magnetic bookmark makes for a fantastic craft that kids can help create. It also makes for a wonderful gift-giving item from them. The materials needed are limited and the time it takes to create it is rather quick, so attention spans are not tested.

Material needed:
Fabric ribbon at least 1" thick
An iron
Magnetic strips thinner than the ribbon
Iron on fusible webbing
Scissors
Towel

Directions:

Lay out all your materials on your work surface. Taking the ribbon, cut a length long enough that when folded in half, it is the size of the bookmark you desire. A suggested length would be about 3" long (minimum). Older children can do this step themselves however younger children will need help using the scissors.

The ribbon folded in half (originally 3" long after folded, 1.5" in length) is the final size of the bookmark. Two strips of magnets a bit shorter than the folder ribbon is needed. Take time to check that the magnets work and you have the correct surfaces facing each other.

Cut two strips of fusible webbing to the same size as the magnets. Being exact is not necessary; you can estimate this measurement but make it shorter rather than longer.

Now you have all the necessary pieces ready to assemble. Lay down one magnet, layer the fusible webbing on top of that and finish with the end of the ribbon, correct side facing up. Work on one side at a time so nothing slips. Place the towel on top of the ribbon and place the iron on top of the towel. Leave in place long enough to melt the fusible webbing but not the magnet, since most magnets are plastic. Before repeating this process on the second side, make sure your magnets work and place it down accordingly. An adult should handle the ironing process.

Fold the ribbon in half, if done properly, the magnets should connect. You can now use the iron one more time to put a crease into the ribbon along its fold.

Suggestions:

1. Fusible webbing is used because many different kinds of adhesives were sampled and most of them bleed through the ribbon leaving marks on the top surface.

2. Making a card to attach the bookmark makes the gift that much more special as well as explaining it's use.

3. The magnetic bookmark will not only mark your page but also the exact line you left off at when placed accordingly.

4. Since you have the materials at hand, make multiples while you are at it. As stated they make great gifts for teachers, librarians, grandparents and the kids will want their own too!

5. The fusible webbing can be any kind, I used the kind made for hemming pants because it was already cut in a linear strip and left one less step needed for cutting.

6. Fabric could be substituted for the ribbon.

7. Decorative scissors or pinking shears could be used to cut the ends of the ribbon for a decorative accent.