Using basic crochet stitches, this beautiful lace bookmark is the perfect way to add a touch of handmade charm to any book. Whether you’re brand new to crochet or a seasoned maker, this quick and easy pattern works up in an afternoon and makes a wonderful gift or a little keepsake for yourself.
The Basic Lace Crochet Bookmark is an elegant and simple design, created by Rhelena at Crochet N’Crafts exclusively for American Crochet.
Why Crochet Bookmarks Make the Perfect Little Make
Crochet bookmarks are one of those small projects that give back far more than the time they take. They’re a thoughtful, budget-friendly gift for the readers in your life — teachers, librarians, students, or that friend who always has a novel in her bag. Tuck one into a new book for a birthday, slip one into a thank-you card, or stitch up a batch for a school fundraiser or craft fair.
Because they use only a small amount of yarn, bookmarks are also a fantastic way to bust your scrap stash and try out new stitches without committing to a big project. This particular design uses a simple chain-and-shell lace motif that looks far more intricate than it is — the openwork gives it that delicate, lacy feel while staying completely beginner-friendly. Work it up in crisp white cotton for a classic look, or reach for a bright, cheerful color to match the reader you’re making it for.
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About the Basic Lace Crochet Bookmark
This lightweight lace bookmark is worked flat in simple rows, then finished with a tidy single crochet edging. It’s quick, portable, and endlessly giftable. Project details at a glance:
- Skill level: Beginner
- Finished size: Approx. 7.25″ x 2.25″
- Stitches used: Chain, half double crochet, single crochet, slip stitch
- Materials: Small amount of DK #3 cotton, G (4.0 mm) hook, yarn needle, scissors
Pattern Details
Skill Level: Beginner
Terms: US crochet terms
Yarn: Small amount of DK #3 mercerized cotton
Hook & Notions
- Size Hook: G (4.0 mm)
- Scissors
- Blunt yarn needle
Finished Size: Approx. 7.25″ x 2.25″
Gauge: Not critical for this project
Abbreviations
- Ch/Chs = Chain/Chains
- Hdc = Half Double Crochet
- Sc = Single Crochet
- Sk = Skip
- Sl St = Slip Stitch
- Sp/Sps = Space/Spaces
- St/Sts = Stitch/Stitches
📝 Pattern Notes
- The 3 skipped chains at the start of Row 1 count as your first hdc.
- Rows 2 and 3 form the lace repeat — just alternate them all the way up.
- Work the edging evenly and add 3 sc in each corner so the bookmark lies flat.
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Basic Lace Crochet Bookmark – Pattern Instructions
Row 1: Ch 12, hdc in 4th ch from hook (skipped chs count as first hdc), hdc in next ch and into each ch across. Turn. [10 sts]
Row 2: Ch 1, sc in first st, [ch 2, sk next 2 sts, sc in next st] 3 times. Turn. [3 ch-2 sps]
Row 3: Ch 2 (counts as first hdc), 2 hdc in ch-2 sp, 4 hdc in next ch-2 sp, 2 hdc in next ch-2 sp, hdc in last st. Turn. [10 sts]
Rows 4-21: Rep rows 2 and 3.
Edging: Ch 1, sc evenly around, working 3 sc in each corner. Join with sl st in first sc. Fasten off and weave in ends.
Engage with Us
I’d love to see your finished bookmarks! Tag me on Instagram @AmericanCrochet or share a photo in my Facebook group so I can cheer you on — and don’t forget to save this pattern to Pinterest so other book lovers can find it, too.
Join the Community!
Don’t forget to share your projects in my Facebook Group and/or on Instagram!
This simply beautiful crochet work, congratulations on your work