DIY Happy Birthday Bookmarks

Guess who got a little crafty this past week? Yup, you guessed it.  Me!

I'm so proud of myself because I accomplished two project this week and I didn't use hot glue for anything!

My first project comes from my own brain.  What?!? I'm not claiming it to be an original idea, but I am claiming that I did not see it on Pinterest first, so it feels somewhat original.

Check out my birthday bookmarks!!

I loved the idea of having something special student birthdays.  I knew if I tried to pull something together mid-year it would NEVER happen.  So, I had to get it done now. The kids at my school already get a pencil from the office, so I went with a bookmark (so me!) and I'm really happy with how they turned out.

I made three different styles of bookmarks using three pieces of scrap-booking paper. I decided to use scrap-booking paper because for less than $2 I save my printer A LOT of ink.  Plus, my inkjet can smear and that just looks tacky!

I also grabbed 3 sheets of the black happy birthday paper for the back of all the bookmarks.  This way the bookmarks would be two sided.

The steps for this little creation are quick and easy.

First, cut the paper to fit in your laminating pouches (8.5 x 11) if needed.

Then, I glue the scrap-booking paper together to create a front and back. My experience has taught me to make sure you use plenty of glue and let it dry ALL THE WAY before you try to laminate.

Next, laminate those puppies!

Finally, cut out your desired bookmark size.  I found I could easily get 8 bookmarks per sheet that were 2 inches wide and 5 1/2 inches long. Go to town with your hole punch and add a cute ribbon for the finishing touch. 

Didn't they turn out cute?!? It was really easy and I had a lot of fun "crafting."

Then, this morning I found this cupcake-ilicious cookie jar and thought it was just the right size for my birthday bookmarks.

 I mean...how perfect is that?  Hooray!

My second project was very spur of the moment.  I was walking the aisles at Michael's, saw a frame at a good price, and viola...

I made one of those super cute quote of the day frames for my classroom.  I choose really basic paper for the background and I already had some black scrap-booking letters left over from my guided reading folder project, so I went for it and I LOVE it.

I now completely understand why versions of these frames are all over Pinterest. It took me probably 5 minutes to complete and I know it will be a wonderful addition to my classroom.

If you have been considering making one - do it! They really do turn out super cute and are so easy.  Now, I'm thinking about making a menu board for my kitchen.  Wouldn't that be cute?!?

I'm also in the process of collecting quotes for my board and will share as soon as I compile an adequate list.  If you have a favorite quote, I'd love to hear it.  Please comment below and I will add it to the list before sharing with everyone.

Now, I'm linking up with Tara at 4th Grade Frolics for Monday Made It.  Be sure to stop by her blog to link up with your own creations or troll for more good ideas.  Happy Crafting!