Easy DIY Gift Idea for Book Lovers: Magnetic Bookmark

If you’re shopping for a book lover and want a gift that feels thoughtful (but doesn’t require waiting on shipping), this DIY magnetic bookmark is chef’s kiss.

They sell these everywhere — and I actually received one as a gift years ago and loved it. But once I really looked at it, I realized… I could totally make this myself. And spoiler: it’s easy, customizable, and perfect for last-minute gifting for:

✔️Friends
✔️Co-workers
✔️Book Clubs
✔️Teachers

Bonus: this is a great way to upcycle scrap fabric or thrifted finds into something truly special.

DIY Magnetic Bookmark Supplies

• Scrap fabric (about 8″ x 8″): I used a gorgeous thrifted scarf with gold sparkle — perfect for a holiday gift
• Corrugated cardboard (from a shipping box)
• Hot glue gun: Grab this Cordless Hot Glue Gun if you don’t have one yet!
• Mini Bookmark Magnets
• Sharp scissors
  

How to Make a DIY Magnetic Bookmark

Here’s my step-by-step process for how to make this DIY magnetic bookmark. If you’re more of a visual learning – watch my video tutorial!

1. Cut Your Fabric

Cut a roughly 8″ x 8″ square of fabric.

Make sure you have extra fabric on all sides — you’ll need it to wrap and finish the edges cleanly.

2. Cut the Cardboard

Cut strips of cardboard about:

• 1–1.5 inches wide
  
• 7–8 inches long
  

Pro tip: Cut near one of the box flaps where there’s already a natural bend — it makes folding into a bookmark shape so much easier.

3. Attach your Magnets

This step is key.

• Test two magnets together first to confirm which sides attract
  
• Hot glue the magnets directly onto the cardboard
  

Why first?

• It gives a clean, finished look
  
• The fabric will cover and secure the magnets
  
• Less risk of magnets popping off later
  

(Ask me how I know… my first prototype learned the hard way 😅)

4. Attach Cardboard to Fabric

• Run a thin line of hot glue along one side of the cardboard
  
• Press it firmly onto the center of the fabric
  
• Wrap the fabric around the cardboard and glue it down on the opposite side
  

5. Finish the Fabric Edges

• Continue wrapping the fabric until you reach the end
  
• Tuck the raw edge under itself, then glue it down for a clean finish
  

For the top and bottom ends:

• Run a thin line of hot glue along the cardboard edge
  
• Use a rolling technique to tuck the fabric inward
  
• Trim excess fabric or threads with scissors
  

This gives it that store-bought look ✨

6. Optional: Personalize It

To take this gift up a notch:

• Use puff paint to add a monogram or initials
  
• Let dry fully before gifting
  

DIY Magnetic Bookmark Gifting Ideas

Whether you’re making these in bulk as affordable Christmas gifts for everyone on your list, or gifting one solo for a birthday, here’s my gifting tips!

🎁Wrap them in these little self-sealing cellophane bags. They’ll look less homemade, and more boutique gift store find!

🎁Pair it with a book! Either:

• One of your favorite books you read this year that you KNOW they’ll love

• Or (pro tip!) check their Goodreads “Want to Read” list and grab something they’ve been eyeing 📖

🎁Gift it as part of a beautiful cozy hygge style package and include:

• a cozy chunky knit throw
• a canister of tea
• a DIY crystal jar candle in their favorite scent
  

If you try this DIY, I’d love to see it! Tag me or send a pic on Instagram — especially if you use a fun thrifted fabric.