Bookmarks
The topic today is bookmarks. An odd topic you say? It actually isn’t when you look at how to market a book without breaking the bank. According to Book Design made Simply, “while there is no single exact statistic about how many authors use bookmarks, they are considered the most common form of author swag and a staple in book marketing.
Today, bookmarks range in creativity, design, and materials. The use of engraved bookmarks made of wood is on the rise. The DIY movement has helped make small laser engravers financially attractive for authors to use and be creative when engraving wooden bookmarks. I’ve hauled out my old wood burning pen for engraving. I forgot how much fun it is to engrave with it. I also forgot how much my hand hurt after using it for long periods of time.
Bookmarks made of beads with charms that are personalized for a book is another type that has seen a significant rise in popularity. Charms made out of miniature books with a printed book cover look wonderful. I have made some for my current middle grade book and picture book. Instead of a traditional paper bookmark, I use these as a thankyou when I’m at a book signing or book festival. For book two in Maisey’s Journey, I’m researching how to make resin charms. I’m hoping these charms will show different aspects of the book that a print bookmark cannot.
Middle grade students love what’s new and different. I’ve learned that the wooden bookmarks or beaded ones are perfect for this age group. Stickers are definitely better for the younger crowd.
I’d love to hear what kind of bookmarks you prefer: fabric, beaded, paper or wood? Are there particular items you’d like to see on a bookmark like quotes, character pictures, setting pictures, music playlists, or perhaps chapter count downs?
Cheers to the storyteller in all of us!