Kids of all ages will enjoy decorating these chalk marker bookmarks. They make a bright, personal gift for Father’s Day or a fun item to create and trade with friends.
My daycare group loves working with popsicle sticks and trying new art materials. I keep a wide variety of supplies on hand — markers, paint pens, oil pastels and more — so the children can experiment and create whenever inspiration strikes. Recently we discovered chalk markers, and they quickly became a favourite.
Chalk markers are fun because they write smoothly and show up brightly on many surfaces: paper, glass, plastic and even stone. We’ve used them on painted rocks and they looked great. One day we wondered whether chalk markers would work on wood, so we pulled out some jumbo craft sticks and gave it a try.
They performed beautifully. The kids spent nearly an hour decorating dozens of craft sticks, turning them into colourful bookmarks. The smooth, opaque pigment of the chalk markers made it easy for little hands to draw bold shapes, write names and add playful designs — stripes, polka dots, hearts, and simple messages like “Happy Father’s Day.”
If you want to try this at home or in a classroom, here are some quick tips to get great results:
- Start with a clean, dry craft stick; sanding lightly will help the marker adhere if the wood is very smooth.
- Let each color dry for a few seconds before layering to avoid smudging.
- Encourage kids to write short messages, draw patterns, or add small drawings that reflect the recipient’s interests (books, sports, animals, etc.).
- To protect the design and make the bookmark last longer, you can seal it with a clear, non-toxic craft sealant once the marker is fully dry. Test the sealant on a spare stick first.
- Punch a hole at the top and add yarn, ribbon, or a tassel for a finished look.
These bookmarks are quick to make, inexpensive, and portable — perfect for craft days, rainy afternoons, or a last-minute gift project. Kids enjoy making multiple designs to trade with friends, give to family members, or keep for their own books.
We also shared this project with CBC Parents and had a lot of fun showing how simple and satisfying it is to turn basic craft sticks into personalised bookmarks. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver, this is a craft that adapts easily to different ages and skill levels.
More Bookmark Craft Ideas for Kids
Try these other easy bookmark projects for variety and inspiration:
- No-sew fabric bookmarks — soft, colourful, and great for fabric scraps.
- Duct tape bookmarks — bold, waterproof and perfect for older kids who enjoy precise patterns.
- Tie-dye bookmarks made with markers and rubbing alcohol — a fun, experimental technique that produces vibrant, unpredictable effects.
Chalk marker popsicle-stick bookmarks are a simple, creative project that encourages fine motor skills, self-expression and gift-giving. They’re excellent for classroom activities, summer programs, and home craft sessions. Gather a few basic supplies, set out a range of colours, and let kids explore — the results are charming, personal and fun to make.