Directions:

On scrap paper, use a pencil and a ruler to draw a perfect 2 1/2–inch square. Draw a matching square to the right of the first, so they share a side in the middle. Draw an identical square above the original so that they touch.

Use the ruler to draw a diagonal line from the bottom left to the top right corner in the uppermost square. The triangular, upper left half is no longer needed, so scribble it out. Do the same in the bottom right square, by drawing a diagonal line from the bottom left to top right corner. The lower right half will not be used, so scribble it out.

Cut out the remaining shape all in one piece, excluding those sections that have been scribbled out. There should now be a square with two attached triangles. This is the template.

Trace the template made of scrap paper onto cardstock and cut it out.

Align the ruler with one of the edges of the square with where a triangle connects. Use the tip of the mechanical pencil with no lead showing to make an indent along this line. Repeat on the other side that also has a triangle attached. This will allow for more precise folding in future steps.

With the full square on the bottom, fold one triangle down, so that it covers the upper half of the square.

With the remaining triangle still unfolded, apply glue to the side facing upwards, and fold it over the first triangle so that the two triangles are glued together.

This is the base bookmark. To use it, slip it over the corner of the last page read. From here, it may be decorated to preference.

Story by Shannon MacAllister, Staff writer.