If you enjoy sewing with fabric scraps and hate losing your pen every time you open a notebook, this project is for you.
This DIY fabric pen holder bookmark is one of those small sewing projects that actually makes your day easier.
It’s quick to sew, scrap-friendly, and works with planners, journals, notebooks, and even Bibles. I love projects like this because they use small fabric leftovers and turn them into something useful instead of forgotten in a drawer.
Why Make a Fabric Pen Holder Bookmark?
A regular bookmark is nice, but it doesn’t solve the real problem — the pen is always missing.
This fabric pen holder bookmark:
- keeps your pen or pencil right where you need it
- fits different notebook sizes
- uses fabric scraps
- is fast and beginner-friendly
- makes a great handmade gift
Once you make one, you’ll probably want a few more.
Materials Needed
This project doesn’t require anything special.
- Fabric scraps (quilting cotton works best)
- Lining fabric (scrap)
- Elastic band
- Pen or pencil (to test the fit)
- Sewing machine
- Thread
- Scissors or rotary cutter
- Pins or clips
Fabric Size & Cutting Guide
These measurements work well for most notebooks and planners.
You can easily adjust them if needed.
Bookmark base (cut 1 main fabric + 1 lining):
- 8″ × 2.5″ (about 20 × 6 cm)
Pen holder pocket (cut 1):
- 10″ × 3″ (about 25 × 7.5 cm)
Elastic:
- About 12″ (30 cm), adjust depending on notebook size
This is a very forgiving project, which makes it perfect for scrap sewing.
How to Make a Fabric Pen Holder Bookmark
1. Prepare the pocket
Fold the pocket fabric in half lengthwise, right sides out, and press.
This folded edge will be the top of the pen holder.
2. Layer the pieces
Place the lining fabric right side up.
Position the folded pocket piece on top, aligned at the bottom.
Next, place the elastic on both sides, forming a loop that will wrap around the notebook.
Make sure the elastic ends extend slightly past the fabric edges.
3. Add the main fabric
Place the main fabric right side down, sandwiching everything together.
Clip or pin around the edges.
4. Sew around
Sew around the entire piece using a ¼″ seam allowance, leaving a small opening to turn it right side out.
Be careful not to twist the elastic while sewing.
5. Turn and finish
Trim the corners, turn the bookmark right side out, and press well.
Topstitch around the edges to close the opening and give it a clean finish.
That’s it — your fabric pen holder bookmark is ready to use.
Scrap-Friendly Sewing Tips
This project works beautifully with:
- small fabric scraps
- quilting cotton leftovers
- patchwork or quilted fabric
You can mix prints, add light quilting, or even sew a vertical line on the pocket to create space for two pens.
Fabric Bookmark Variations
Once you understand the basic construction, you can easily customize it:
- add a button closure
- make a quilted version
- adjust the width for thicker pens
- create different lengths for planners or journals
It’s a simple project with lots of possibilities.
More Fabric Bookmark Ideas
If you like this project, you might also enjoy this one:
DIY Fabric Bookmark Sewing Project
It’s a great option if you want something even quicker to sew.
