20+ Types of Products to Create and Sell as a Creative - Product #19: Bookmarks

Bookmarks are functional yet decorative items used to mark one’s place in a book. Beyond their practical use, bookmarks have become an art form, offering readers a personalized, creative accessory for their reading experience. They can feature artwork, inspirational quotes, or thematic designs and are often collected or given as gifts. Bookmarks can be made of various materials, including paper, cardstock, metal, leather, or even digital formats for e-readers.

There are several popular types of bookmarks:

• Printable bookmarks: Digital files that can be printed at home or professionally.
• Physical bookmarks: Handmade or professionally printed designs on materials like paper, cardstock, wood, or metal.
• Magnetic bookmarks: Foldable bookmarks with magnetic strips to clasp onto the pages.
• Digital bookmarks: Designs for use in digital books or apps, often integrated into reading platforms or e-readers.

1. Choose a Theme or Purpose:

• Start by deciding on the theme of your bookmarks, whether it's based on a particular book genre, inspirational quotes, book lovers’ designs, or seasonal themes (such as Christmas or summer). You can also create themed collections, such as literary quotes, floral designs, or motivational phrases.

2. Design the Bookmarks:

• Use design software like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Procreate, or Canva to create your bookmark design. Your design should fit a standard bookmark size, typically around 2” x 6”, though you can choose any size or shape that suits your vision.
• Incorporate illustrations, typography, and patterns to make the design visually appealing. For printable bookmarks, make sure the file is high-resolution (300 dpi) to ensure crisp prints.
• For digital bookmarks, you can design graphics or patterns that match popular e-book platforms or reading apps.

3. Add Embellishments (Optional):

• If you are creating physical bookmarks, you can add elements like tassels, ribbons, or small charms to make them more unique. Laminating the bookmarks will make them more durable.
• For magnetic bookmarks, design a foldable version and incorporate magnets into the edges to create a clasp effect that attaches securely to book pages.

4. Prepare the Files:

• For printable bookmarks, save your design as JPEG, PNG, or PDF files that can be easily printed. Consider providing both a color version and a black-and-white version for those who might want to color them in themselves.
• For physical bookmarks, if you are going to print and sell them yourself, choose a high-quality printing service to get professional results on sturdy materials like cardstock or specialty papers.

1. Etsy:

• Etsy is a popular platform for selling both physical and printable bookmarks. You can reach a large community of readers, book lovers, and crafters looking for unique and personalized bookmarks.

2. Creative Market and Creative Fabrica:

• If you create printable bookmarks or design templates, Creative Market and Creative Fabrica are ideal for reaching a community of creatives looking for unique digital products. You can sell individual designs or bundle them into themed sets.

3. Design Bundles and The Hungry JPEG:

• On platforms like Design Bundles and The Hungry JPEG, you can share and sell your printable bookmark designs, particularly to customers looking for DIY printables or designs to sell in their own stores.

4. Your Own Website:

• If you prefer to sell directly, create an online store using Shopify, WooCommerce, or other e-commerce platforms. This gives you full control over your pricing and branding, and you can offer a variety of designs and customization options.

5. Gumroad and Payhip:

• For easy-to-set-up digital sales, Gumroad and Payhip allow you to sell printable bookmarks directly to your audience. These platforms handle payments and file delivery, making the process simple for both you and your customers.

6. Amazon Handmade:

• If you are creating physical bookmarks, consider selling on Amazon Handmade. This platform gives you access to a massive audience looking for custom, handmade goods.

7. Pinterest and Instagram:

• Promote your bookmarks on visual platforms like Pinterest and Instagram. Share images of your designs, in-use photos, or even process videos to engage your audience and drive traffic to your store.

8. Canva:

• If you are a graphic designer, you can apply to sell your bookmarks as templates on Canva. This way, other users can customize your designs for their own personal or business use.

Bookmarks are a simple yet creative way to express artistic ideas while serving a practical purpose for readers. Whether you are selling digital, printable, or physical bookmarks, there is a large audience that appreciates the charm and personalization of unique designs. By offering them on platforms like Etsy, Creative Market, and your own website, you can share your creations with book lovers, students, and literary enthusiasts around the world.

Thank you for reading this post. Please share it.