Simple Worsted Bookmarks

A quick, beginner-friendly crochet bookmark worked flat in single crochet. Makes a sturdy 2" × 7" rectangle (before border) perfect for novels or journals. Add an optional tidy border and tassel for a finished look. One skein makes several.

Materials

• Worsted weight yarn (category 4), approx 20–25 yd (18–23 m) per bookmark
• Crochet hook size H/8 (5 mm) or size needed to obtain gauge
• Yarn needle
• Scissors
• Optional: 1 stitch marker, small piece of cardboard (3" wide) for tassel

Gauge

4 sc and 4 rows = 1" (2.5 cm) in single crochet. Gauge is not critical for fit but affects final size; work evenly for a neat rectangle.

Finished Size

Approximately 2" wide × 7" long (5 × 18 cm) before border. With optional border: approximately 2½" × 7½" (6.5 × 19 cm), plus tassel.

Abbreviations (US Terms)

• ch: chain
• sc: single crochet
• sl st: slip stitch
• st(s): stitch(es)
• rnd: round
• rep: repeat
• yo: yarn over

Pattern Notes

• Bookmark is worked flat in rows.
• Turning ch-1 does not count as a stitch.
• Work into both loops unless otherwise stated.
• Stitch count remains constant: 8 sc every row.
• To change length, work more or fewer rows (4 rows ≈ 1").
• To change width, adjust starting chain in multiples of 1 (final sc count = starting ch – 1).
• Weave in ends securely; bookmarks receive handling.

Pattern Instructions

Bookmark Body

With worsted yarn and H/8 (5 mm) hook, ch 9.

Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across. (8 sc) Ch 1, turn.

Row 2: Sc in each sc across. (8 sc) Ch 1, turn.

Rows 3–28: Rep Row 2. (8 sc each row) At end of Row 28, do not fasten off if working border. Fasten off if skipping border, leaving a 6" tail.

(Inline check: 28 rows ÷ 4 rows per inch = 7" length ✓; 8 sc ÷ 4 sc per inch = 2" width ✓)

Optional Simple Border

Continue with same yarn (or join contrasting color in any corner with sl st).

Rnd 1: Ch 1, work 3 sc in same corner st, sc evenly down long edge (place 1 sc in end of each row ≈ 28 sc), 3 sc in next corner, sc across short edge (8 sc), 3 sc in next corner, sc evenly up remaining long edge (≈ 28 sc), 3 sc in final corner, sc across remaining short edge (8 sc), join with sl st to first sc. Fasten off.

(Inline check: corners each receive 3 sc for neat turn; long edges match row count; short edges match body stitch count ✓)

Finishing

1. Weave in all ends securely on wrong side with yarn needle.
2. Block lightly if desired: mist with water, pin to rectangle shape, and let dry.
3. Optional Tassel: Cut 8–10 strands of yarn 6" long. Fold in half. Insert hook into center of one short end of bookmark, grab fold, pull loop through, then pull strand ends through loop and tighten. Trim ends even. (Alternatively wrap yarn around 3" cardboard 15 times, tie top, cut bottom, and attach.)
4. Optional: Add a small charm or bead to tassel head if desired.

Tips for Success

• Keep tension even so edges stay straight; if edges curl, go up a hook size.
• Count stitches every few rows until the 8-sc rhythm feels automatic.
• Make a set in coordinating colors for gifts—each uses very little yarn.
• For a firmer bookmark, go down one hook size; for softer drape, go up one size.

Enjoy your handmade bookmarks!