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What are Creative Uses for Bookmarks That Don’t Involve Books?

Even if you’re a die-hard fan of all things digital and staunch supporter of going paperless, you might not want to dismiss bookmarks so fast. With a little out-of-the-box thinking, bookmarks can actually be more useful than simply saving your page in the latest best-selling thriller.

Aside from paperback novels, custom designed bookmarks can also serve as a marketing piece or novel gift idea for retailers, marketers and as personal gifts.


Bookmark uses that don't involve books


Follow this simple 5-step guide to creating functional bookmarks:

  • Step 1: Start by downloading a customizable online bookmark template, like on OvernightPrints.com. These free templates are pre-formatted for printing to make things easier.
  • Step 2: Customize your design. Be sure to follow the template guides for the safe zone and bleed. Once your design is complete, place your order.
  • Step 3: Get decorative rope or ribbon from a local craft store.
  • Step 4: Using a one-hole punch, create a single hole at the top of your bookmark.
  • Step 5: Thread the ribbon into a square knot (both ends through the hole, then through the loop). Beautiful!

Bookmarks as creative gifts

Get personal with custom bookmark gifts for major holidays and occasions.

Mini love story bookmark

  1. Gift tags: Use bookmarks as themed gift tags for special occasion gift-giving, such as birthdays, weddings, holidays and special ceremonies.
  2. Save-the-date: Remind guests about upcoming parties, weddings and other events by designing customized save-the-date bookmarks.
  3. Souvenirs: Custom bookmarks with scenic panoramic photos of famous landmarks, stunning nature scenes and local attractions are the perfect pocket-size gift.
  4. Holiday favors: Design bookmarks around upcoming holiday and give as gifts to avid readers, potential clients, relatives and school teachers.
  5. Birth announcement: Create personalized keepsakes to announce baby’s arrival. Include the newborn’s name, date of birth and birth information to share with family and friends.
  6. Personalized gifts: Make special gifts for friends and clients with a favorite quote, song lyric, memorable photo or your company tag line.
  7. Recipe cards: Great for foodies, share food recipes and cherished family dishes to be a hit in the kitchen.

Bookmarks as money-makers

Grow revenue with marketing bookmarks that attract business.

Custom Marketing Bookmarks

  1. Sellable art: Print paintings and drawings on bookmarks to raise money at arts & craft fairs or for fundraisers.
  2. Jewelry holder: Repurpose bookmarks as jewelry holders for earrings and bracelets to sell in store.
  3. Loyalty punch cards: Create customer loyalty or punch cards to encourage repeat business. Customers can also pass along the bookmark to share referral discounts.
  4. Hang tag: Design as a hang tag for clothing to list the price or description, and provide care instructions on the backside.
  5. Coupon: Use double-sided bookmarks as business cards to advertise your products or services with a promotional offer or special pricing.
  6. Social card: Drive traffic to your website with social cards listing all your social media platforms and handles.
  7. Marketing tool: Attract business with photographs of your business and products on marketing bookmarks.
  8. Event tickets: Bookmarks are an affordable alternative to custom ticket printing, and customers will walk away with a keepsake after the affair.
  9. Gate-fold Business Cards: Need eye-catching business cards for networking? Create your own gate-fold business cards using bookmarks.
    • Download a template and design your bookmarks as if they were greeting cards.
    • Split the template into two equal design spaces. Be sure to check for proper bi-fold orientation specs before finalizing your design.
    • Fold the bookmark down the center to make a custom gate-fold business card.

Bookmarks to promote community events

Schools and libraries can use bookmarks to encourage reading, or inspire church attendance and participation in community events.

Dr Seuss themed motivational bookmarks

  1. Schools or libraries: Encourage kids to read by giving away colorfully designed bookmarks that feature favorite children’s authors or characters.
  2. Churches: Promote your organization with specialty bookmarks. Include bible verses, service times or inspiring quotes.
  3. Local organizations: Design bookmarks that showcase the unique aspects of the town or city. Incorporate photos of community events, restaurants and popular attractions.

Visit OvernightPrints.com to create custom bookmarks.

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