The kids loved making them because there are so many ways to create your own mark.The felt is terrific because it doesn't run - so no sewing needed here. Have a super time!

What you need:

• Felt squares   - any color you want the more the merrier
• Glue gun*
• Paper
• Scissors
• Pencil
• Straight pins
• Sequins (optional)
• Fun foam precut shapes (optional)**
• Ribbon (optional)

What to do:

1. Choose a piece of felt that will be the book mark. On a piece of paper make a pattern for the mark. Draw a rectangle that is 2 1/2 inches wide and 7 1/2 inches long. I found this wide enough so that the kids could feel free to create their design. Cut out the paper mark.
2. Draw right on the paper pattern what you would like to see on the felt book mark. This way the child can actually see how much space they have to work with. Take the paper pattern and attach it to the felt with the straight pins. Cut along the pattern. Remove the pins and pattern and now you have the basic book mark.
3. You can use the other pieces of felt to create flowers, geometric shapes, a scene etc.. that later will be glued to the felt book mark.
4. After it has been decided how it will be decorated, then start any of the cutting of the felt etc ... for decorating. Have fun with it!
5. Use the glue gun to secure the pieces- sequins can be an interesting touch. After the book mark is almost finished, then you can glue ribbon around the edges of it. All you need now is a good book!
6. * Tacky glue can be substituted if you don't have a glue gun. ** Fun foam also comes in sheets and can be found at any craft store. If using sheets you can create your own shapes. It's terrific stuff.

Making Felt
This craft idea is brought to us by Janelle Hardy a homeschooling mom from Australia.   She has shared with us her technique to make felt- that wonderfully versatile and easy to use material.   This is perfect for Christmas and holiday ornaments and gifts. Making felt or felting, as it is called, is a great group activity.  This can be done in the classroom or in your neighborhood.  The kids will love it!!