How to Make Printable Bookmarks in Word

Published at April 07, 2023

Crafting your own bookmarks can be a fun and creative way to add a personal touch to your reading experience. With Microsoft Word, it’s easy to design, customize, and print your own bookmarks. In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through the process step by step.

Prerequisites

Before getting started, ensure you have the following:

Step 1: Set Up the Document

  1. Open Microsoft Word and create a new blank document.
  2. Click on the ‘Layout’ tab and then click ‘Size’ in the ‘Page Setup’ group. Choose ‘A4’ or ‘Letter’ size, depending on your preferred paper size.
  3. Click on the ‘Margins’ button in the ‘Page Setup’ group and choose ‘Narrow’. This will allow you to fit more bookmarks onto a single sheet.

Step 2: Create the Bookmark Template

  1. Go to the ‘Insert’ tab and click on the ‘Shapes’ button. Choose the ‘Rectangle’ shape.
  2. Click and drag on the document to draw the shape. Adjust the size of the rectangle to your desired bookmark dimensions, e.g., 2 inches wide by 6 inches tall.
  3. To ensure your bookmark has a clean, even border, right-click the shape, select ‘Format Shape’, and set the ‘Line’ option to ‘No Line’.
  4. To add a background color, click on the shape and choose ‘Shape Fill’ from the ‘Shape Format’ tab. Select a color or gradient for your bookmark background.

Step 3: Customize Your Bookmark

Now that you have a basic template, you can customize your bookmark with text, images, and other design elements:

Add Text

  1. Go to the ‘Insert’ tab and click on the ‘Text Box’ button. Choose ‘Simple Text Box’.
  2. Click and drag to draw the text box on top of your bookmark. Adjust the size and position as needed.
  3. Type your desired text into the text box. Customize the font, size, color, and alignment using the ‘Home’ tab options.

Add Images

  1. Go to the ‘Insert’ tab and click on the ‘Pictures’ button. You can choose to insert a picture from your computer, or search for online images.
  2. Resize and position the image on your bookmark as desired.
  3. Right-click on the image and select ‘Wrap Text’ > ‘In Front of Text’ to avoid any formatting issues.

Add Design Elements

  1. Go back to the ‘Insert’ tab and explore the ‘Shapes’, ‘Icons’, and ‘SmartArt’ options to add more visual elements to your bookmark.
  2. Customize the colors, sizes, and positions of these elements to create a unique design.

Step 4: Duplicate Your Bookmark

  1. Select all elements of your bookmark by clicking and dragging a selection box around them.
  2. Press Ctrl+C to copy, and then Ctrl+V to paste the selection.
  3. Drag the duplicated bookmark to the desired position on the page. Repeat this process to fill the page with bookmarks.

Step 5: Print Your Bookmarks

  1. Save your document and ensure your printer is set up with the appropriate paper or cardstock.
  2. Click on the ‘File’ tab, choose ‘Print’, and adjust the print settings as needed. Make sure to select ‘Actual size’ or ‘100%’ scaling.
  3. Click ‘Print’ to print your bookmarks.

Step 6: Cut Out Your Bookmarks

Once the bookmarks are printed, carefully cut them out using scissors or a paper trimmer. To achieve a more professional look, follow these tips:

  1. Use a straight edge or ruler to ensure your cuts are precise and even.
  2. For a cleaner edge, opt for a paper trimmer over scissors.
  3. To prevent damage and prolong the life of your bookmarks, consider laminating them and trimming the excess lamination.

Optional: Add Finishing Touches

To further personalize your bookmarks, consider adding embellishments or decorative elements such as:

Conclusion

With Microsoft Word, it’s easy to create beautiful, customized printable bookmarks for yourself or to give as thoughtful gifts. Let your creativity run wild as you experiment with different designs, colors, and embellishments. Happy reading!