Shaker Bookmark DIY | Free SVG File | No Fuse Tool Needed!
If you’re looking for a fun and beginner-friendly craft that combines your love of reading and crafting, these shaker bookmarks are just the thing! You don’t need a fuse tool, sewing machine, or even any special craft supplies beyond some plastic, paper, ribbon, and sequins. This project is perfect for crafters of all levels—and it makes great gifts for any book lover in your life!
In this post, I’ll walk you through how to use my free shaker bookmark SVG file, available in my Community Vault, to create your own cute, no-fuse shaker bookmarks. Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need
This post includes affiliate links, please see my disclosure here.
- My shaker bookmark SVG file (grab it from the Community Vault below!)
- Acetate sheets (or page protectors, clear packaging, or any thin plastic)
- Cardstock
- Sequins or other small, flat fillers
- Glue – I used Bearly Art craft glue but you can also use hot glue
- Cricut, Silhouette, or another cutting machine
- Ribbon for the top.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cut the File
Upload the SVG to your cutting machine software and cut the file.
Resize as you need. Use the purple acetate piece as a guide for height. I made mine about 6 inches tall.
Start by un-grouping the whole file.
The base piece will have a black rectangle, you will change this a score line and attach.
You’ll also want to cut your acetate using the purple part of the SVG. I added a score line down this as well. It doesn’t do much but it is there. Make sure to delete or again change to a score line and attach.
I also added in a print then cut sticker to mine as decor. This is optional, you can decorate however you see fit.
Step 2: Fold the Acetate & Paper
Once cut, gently fold the acetate along the score line or down the middle as evenly as you can. This creates the “pocket” part of your shaker bookmark. The SVG is designed so that the paper wraps around the acetate and locks in the shaker bits.
No fuse tool or sewing machine is needed here—just fold, glue, and go!
For the paper, you will fold it around the border and insert the acetate piece inside. I glued down the three edges, leaving the top open for filling.
Step 3: Fill the Shaker
Now you can fill the shaker at the top with sequins or cutouts.
Fold the top hole piece in half. Then, add in the piece with the hole through the slit and glue the last flap down. I made the mistake of using glitter paper so I had to break out the hot glue for this.
I added my stickers of the book stacks to the outside of the shaker for a personal touch.
Now, just add your ribbon at the top!
Fill It With Fun
I used sequins, but you can also get creative with:
- Mini confetti
- Flat die cuts
- Glitter
- Mini punch shapes
Crafting these shaker bookmarks is just so much fun—and there are endless ways to personalize them for different seasons, holidays, or favorite books.
Want to Grab the Free SVG?
- Sign up for my email list to receive the SVG Vault password. Design Number #183 – Learn how to download here.
- Log in to the vault and find the design.
- Click the download link, unzip the file, and start crafting!
Tips & Variations
- You can use a page protector if you don’t have acetate on hand—just cut it carefully and handle gently.
- Try using patterned paper or layered cardstock for the top part of the bookmark for a little extra flair.
- These make great gifts for teachers, friends, or even as a classroom party craft!
- Don’t forget to tie a piece of ribbon through the hole to finish it off.
Final Thoughts
DIY shaker bookmarks are a quick and satisfying project that adds a little sparkle to your reading time. And the best part? You don’t need a fuse tool or sewing machine—just glue and a little imagination.
Don’t forget to share your creations and tag me on social! And while you’re here, check out more paper crafting tutorials and free SVG files for book-themed projects, cards, and more.
