Having 3 sick kids is NO FUN.

Two double ear infections for the girls.

Right ear infection for Ian.

Add that to the coughing and pink eye and I'd call us a HOT MESS!

Oh, and let's not forget that I am also sick.

Yep, Zpacks all the way around.

Good times!

Now, let's get moving with this easy tutorial.

I am doing two versions.

A sewing version and a non-sewing version.

Materials:

* .5" elastic, about 10"

* 5/8" or 7/8" ribbon of your choice, about 1 yard

* Pins

* Hot Glue Gun

* Sewing machine & notions

* Scissors

* Lighter

* Ruffling Foot {optional}

{Click on the photo for a larger version}

I am going to start with the no sew version which should take

all of FIVE minutes to make.

This would be a great party favor if you find character fabric!

Cut your ribbon a couple of inches longer than your book.

You will use the lighter to burn each

edge so that the ribbon does not fray.

Cut your half inch elastic 1 inch shorter than the length of your book on each end.

Using your hot glue gun,

put a big dab of glue on the end of your ribbon.

Attach the elastic to the end.

Repeat with the other side, creating a circle/loop.

Let the glue dry completely and slip that pretty bookmark

on your favorite book or give it to your favorite little reader!

Couldn't ask for a better bookmark!

AND...now for the ruffled version that requires some sewing!

Cut about 1 yard of ribbon.

You will need to leave 2" on the end to sew to the elastic.

Fold ribbon under approximately 1/4"- 1/2" to create the ruffle.

Pin to hold.

{or if you are like me, I just took it to the machine and folded under as I went b/c you know I have a hate/hate relationship with pins}

Also make sure to have your elastic cut, about 1" shorter

on each end of the length of your book.

OPTIONAL:

If you have a ruffling foot, you can skip the above step.

Take your pinned, ruffled ribbon to the machine.

Straight stitch right down the middle.

I used a matching thread but it would be cute to

use a contrasting thread as well!

You will ruffle enough to extend the length of your book.

Leave a 2" tail of ribbon to attach to the elastic.

Use a zig zag stitch to attach your elastic to the end of your ribbon.

Do again to the other end.

It should look like a circle/loop.

And you are all done!

So cute and perfect for keeping your place.

Put 2 bookmarks together for mega cuteness!

Or use a character ribbon such as Minnie Mouse for your

favorite little reader.

Add it to the party favor bag for a unique favor.

Now, if that isn't an easy tutorial, I don't know what is!

Please feel free to share your creations on our Facebook page.

We love, love, love to see what you come up with.

Add embellishments, a messy flower or some bling.

Make it your own!

Enjoy and Happy Friday!

PS ~ I run my half marathon on Sunday.

SOOOO EXCITED!