Perhaps one of the sure signs of summer vacation is having more time to read books. We've been encouraging one another around here to read for relaxation, read to fill the down time, engage the imagination and entertain oneself through story and not be business as usual. It's working...even I am reading more though I'm not on summer vacation.
One essential tool for summer reading are bookmarks. Crafting Fun has a project called "Dangle Bead Bookmark", a very durable ribbon bookmark adorned with a simple string of beads at one end, and then my favorite in Homemade Fun is called "Simple Bookmarks". It's a great bookmark technique and lends itself to many forms.
Here is the cute owl template from HOMEMADE FUN (drawn by illustrator, Julie Grant) which stares back sweetly at the reader. Trace as a template onto sturdy card stock or recycled paper (the tracing/transfer technique is in the craft instructions) and decorate as you like or cut along the edges of this print out for a ready made bookmark.
From HOMEMADE FUN:
Once you learn to make this bookmark, you will never again have to bend down the corners pages of your book to mark your place. Make a variety of animal-shaped bookmarks using this simple technique and give to friends and family.
Click on image to enlarge, then print and trace. If you are in a hurry, cut out the shape as directed.
These really are so charming! I think kids should make a collection of books marks...more to come on that.