Simple Worsted Crochet Bookmark

A quick, sturdy beginner bookmark worked entirely in single crochet. Soft yet firm enough to mark pages without bulk. Perfect scrap-buster and thoughtful handmade gift. Optional back-loop ridges add subtle texture; a classic tassel finishes the look.

Materials

• Yarn: Worsted weight (category 4), preferably cotton or cotton-blend for stitch definition and durability. Approximately 25 yd (23 m). Sample uses a smooth mercerized cotton.
• Hook: US G/6 (4.0 mm) for a dense fabric that holds its shape. (US H/8 / 5.0 mm may be used for a slightly softer drape; adjust row count if needed.)
• Notions: Yarn needle, scissors, optional small charm or bead for tassel.

Gauge

16 sc and 18 rows = 4″ (10 cm) in single crochet, blocked lightly. Gauge is important for the stated finished size; if your swatch is larger, go down a hook size.

Finished Size

One size: 2″ wide × 6½″ long (5 cm × 16.5 cm), excluding tassel. Tassel adds approximately 3″ (7.5 cm).

Abbreviations (US Terms)

• ch – chain
• sc – single crochet
• BLO – back loop only
• st(s) – stitch(es)
• sl st – slip stitch
• yo – yarn over
• RS – right side
• WS – wrong side

Pattern Notes

• Bookmark is worked flat in rows.
• Turning chain (ch 1) does not count as a stitch.
• Work into both loops unless instructed to work BLO.
• Stitch count remains constant at 8 sc every row; count is given in parentheses at the end of each row.
• For a smooth surface, work all rows through both loops. For subtle horizontal ridges, work every row in BLO after Row 1.
• Keep tension even so side edges remain straight; if edges curl, try a smaller hook or block gently when finished.

Special Stitch

None — only basic single crochet is used.

Pattern Instructions

Foundation Ch 9.

Row 1 (RS) Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across. (8 sc)

Row 2 Ch 1, turn; sc in each st across. (8 sc)

Rows 3–30 Repeat Row 2. (8 sc each row)

(At this point the piece should measure approximately 6½″ / 16.5 cm long. Add or subtract rows if you prefer a longer or shorter bookmark; always end after a RS row if you plan to add an edging round.)

Optional Simple Edging (recommended for a polished look) Do not fasten off. Ch 1, do not turn. Work 1 sc in the end of each row down the long side (30 sc), 3 sc in the corner, sc in each foundation-chain st across the bottom (8 sc), 3 sc in the corner, sc in the end of each row up the other long side (30 sc), 3 sc in the corner, sc in each st across the top (8 sc), 2 more sc in the same corner st to complete the round. Join with sl st to first sc. Fasten off.

(If you prefer no edging, simply fasten off after Row 30.)

Finishing

1. Weave in all ends securely on the WS with a yarn needle. For the starting tail, weave it along the foundation chain so it is completely hidden.
2. Tassel (make 1)
   • Cut 12 strands of yarn, each 8″ (20 cm) long.
   • Hold the strands together and fold in half.
   • Insert hook from RS to WS through the center bottom of the bookmark (or through the middle of the 3-sc corner if edged). Grab the folded loop of the tassel and pull it partway through.
   • Pass the cut ends of the tassel through the loop and pull snug to form a lark’s-head knot.
   • Optional: thread a small charm or bead onto the tassel before trimming.
   • Trim the ends evenly to approximately 3″ (7.5 cm).
3. Lightly block if desired: mist with water, pin to finished measurements on a blocking board, and allow to dry flat. This relaxes the stitches and straightens the edges.
4. Your bookmark is ready to use or gift!

Tips for Success

• Count your stitches at the end of the first few rows until the motion becomes automatic.
• If the piece begins to slant, check that you are not accidentally skipping the first stitch or working into the turning chain.
• Cotton yarn may feel stiff while crocheting but softens beautifully with use and light blocking.
• Make a set in coordinating colors for a lovely teacher or book-club gift.

Enjoy your new bookmark — happy crocheting!