Pattern Description:
This crochet bookmark pattern is a quick, elegant project perfect for book lovers. Worked in just six rows, it combines simple stitches like single, half-double, and treble crochet to create a textured, wavy design.
Ideal as a thoughtful handmade gift, it can be customized in length and color to match any reader’s style.
Materials Needed & Measurements:
- Yarn: #3 (DK) weight cotton yarn – approx. 15 yds (main colors A & C) + 5 yds (contrast color B)
- Hook: 4 mm crochet hook
- Other: Yarn needle, scissors, optional tassel
- Gauge: 9 sts = 2″
- Finished Size: ~6″ (short) or 8″ (long) in length × 1.5″ wide
Final Dimensions:
- Short Version: Approx. 6″ long × 1.5″ wide
- Long Version: Approx. 8″ long × 1.5″ wide
Color Guide
- Color A: Base color (used in Row 1 and Row 2)
- Color B: Zig zag contrast (used in Row 3 and Row 4)
- Color C: Finishing color (used in Row 5 and Row 6)
Pattern Notes
- The bookmark is worked flat in rows from side to side.
- You can make two sizes: Short (31 stitches) or Long (37 stitches).
- Gauge is not crucial for this project, but consistency is key to getting neat edges.
- You can use leftover yarn from other projects to create unique color combinations.
- Light blocking or steam pressing after completion will help the bookmark lay flat.
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
| ch | Chain |
| sc | Single Crochet |
| hdc | Half Double Crochet |
| dc | Double Crochet |
| tc | Treble Crochet |
| sc2tog | Single Crochet Two Together |
| sc3tog | Single Crochet Three Together |
| tc2tog | Treble Crochet Two Together |
| tc3tog | Treble Crochet Three Together |
| st(s) | Stitch(es) |
| ch-sp | Chain Space |
| rep | Repeat |
| sk | Skip |
| FO | Fasten Off |
Instructions for Making the Zig Zag Bookmark Pattern:
Row 1: Foundation Row (Color A)
Start by making a foundation single crochet (FSC) of 31 (short) or 37 (long) stitches. Alternatively, chain 32 (short) or 38 (long) and work 1 sc in the second ch from the hook and across. → 31 (37) sts total.
Tip: FSC gives a stretchier and neater edge, but you can use the regular chain method if you prefer.
Row 2: Building the First Wave
Ch 1 and turn your work. Sc in the first st, then repeat the following pattern until the end: (hdc, dc, 3 tc, dc, hdc, sc) across the row. → You will have 41 (49) sts total due to the 3-tc clusters. Fasten off Color A.
Row 3: Forming the Zig Zag (Color B)
Join Color B to the first stitch. Ch 1 and turn. Sc2tog over the first two sts, sc in next 2 sts. Then repeat: (3 sc in next st, sc in next 2 sts, sc3tog over next 3 sts, sc in next 2 sts) until the end of the row. Finish with 3 sc in next st, sc in next 2 sts, sc2tog over last 2 sts. → 41 (49) sts total.
Row 4: Reinforcing the Zig Zag
Repeat Row 3 using the same color (B). This will strengthen the chevron pattern and add definition between the base and upper sections. → FO Color B at the end of the row.
Row 5: Creating the Final Wave (Color C)
Attach Color C at the beginning of the row. Ch 4 (counts as first tc). Skip the first st and work a tc2tog using the next two stitches. Then repeat: (dc, hdc, sc, hdc, dc, tc3tog over next 3 sts) across the row. End with a tc2tog over the last two sts. → 31 (37) sts total.
Row 6: Finishing Row
Ch 1, turn, and sc across each st. → 31 (37) sts total. Fasten off and weave in all ends neatly using a yarn needle.
Optional Finishing Touches
- Blocking: Lightly steam or wet block your bookmark to even out the stitches. Pin it flat on a towel and allow it to dry.
- Tassel or Charm: Add a tassel, charm, or bead to one end using leftover yarn. It gives a professional and personalized look.
- Color Variations: Experiment with gradient yarns or use metallic cotton thread for a more elegant version.
Helpful Tips
- Keep your tension even; tight stitches may cause the bookmark to curl.
- If you prefer a wider bookmark, add multiples of 6 stitches to your foundation chain.
- Cotton yarn works best, but bamboo or linen blends can also create a smooth, thin bookmark texture.
This beautiful zig zag crochet bookmark is lightweight, durable, and makes a perfect handmade accessory for any book lover.
