Make tie-dye bookmarks with CookieKoo
Make colorful tie-dye bookmarks with CookieKoo using washable markers, twisting and spraying water, then drying to create unique designs for your books.
About this activity
Make colorful tie-dye bookmarks with CookieKoo using washable markers, twisting and spraying water, then drying to create unique designs for your books.
What you need
Step by step
- 1
Step 1
Spread the tray or a layer of paper towels on your table to protect it.
- 2
Step 2
Use the CookieKoo to cut out a bookmark shape from the cardstock.
- 3
Step 3
Pick 3 to 5 washable marker colors you want to use for your tie-dye.
- 4
Step 4
Press the first marker tip onto the bookmark and twist the marker in a small circle to make a swirly color spot.
- 5
Step 5
Repeat the twisting motion with each other color, placing spots across the bookmark and leaving tiny white spaces between colors.
- 6
Step 6
Hold the spray bottle about 6 to 8 inches away and lightly mist the bookmark until the colors look wet but not dripping.
- 7
Step 7
Gently dab the wet areas with a paper towel to help the inks spread and soften into a tie-dye look.
- 8
Step 8
Lay the bookmark flat on the tray and let it dry completely.
- 9
Step 9
Write your name or a fun message on the back of the bookmark with a marker.
- 10
Step 10
Share your finished colorful tie-dye bookmark on DIY.org.
Fun facts
How do I make tie-dye bookmarks with CookieKoo?
Start by protecting your workspace with newspaper. Color the CookieKoo bookmark with washable markers in random dots, lines, or swirls. Fold or gently twist the bookmark so the colors overlap. Lightly mist with a spray bottle until colors begin to bleed. Let sit for a few minutes, then blot excess water with a paper towel. Open and flatten, then let dry completely before pressing under a book or laminating for durability.
What materials do I need for tie-dye bookmarks with CookieKoo?
You’ll need CookieKoo bookmark blanks, washable markers, a small spray bottle filled with water, paper towels, and a protective surface or tray. Optional items: hole punch and string or tassel, clear contact paper or laminator for sealing, clips or clothespins for hanging while drying, and an apron or old shirt to protect clothing.
What ages is this activity suitable for?
This craft suits kids aged about 4 and up. Children 4–7 will enjoy the color mixing with adult help for spraying and twisting; older kids can manage the steps independently. Avoid for children under 3 due to small parts and marker access. Always supervise younger kids to prevent marker ingestion and to manage wet materials and drying safely.
What are some fun variations and finishing tips for tie-dye bookmarks?
Try folding techniques (accordion, spiral) for different patterns, or use a straw to blow colors for marbled looks. After drying, add stickers, metallic gel details, or a dab of glitter glue. Laminate or cover with clear contact paper to protect the design and add a punched hole with a tassel. For faster drying, hang with clips in a breezy spot.
Watch & Learn
Need help?
What can I use if I don't have a CookieKoo to cut the bookmark from cardstock?
If you don't have a CookieKoo, use scissors or a craft punch to cut the bookmark shape from cardstock before you pick your washable marker colors.
My colors aren't spreading or they're soaking through—what should I try?
If the inks puddle or soak through the cardstock, hold the spray bottle farther than 6-8 inches, mist more lightly, and gently dab excess moisture with a paper towel to help the inks spread without dripping.
How can I adapt this bookmark tie-dye activity for different ages?
For younger kids have an adult pre-cut the cardstock with the CookieKoo, limit to 2 washable marker colors, and let the grown-up mist and dab with the spray bottle and paper towel, while older kids can use 4-5 colors, tighter swirls, and experiment with placement of spots.
How can we make the finished bookmark last longer or add a personal touch?
After the bookmark dries, write your name on the back with a marker, punch a hole and add a yarn tassel, or laminate the cardstock to make the tie-dye bookmark more durable before sharing it on DIY.org.