About This Very Shelley Bookmark Pattern
This pattern creates a slim, shell-stitch bookmark worked from a foundation chain with shells worked on both sides and a decorative tail. It uses basic US double crochet stitches and an easy shell motif making it accessible and fast to work up. The finished bookmark can be finished with a button, bead or tassel for personality and function.
Perfect for beginners or quick handmade gifts, the bookmark measures approximately 25cm for 8 shells. The pattern repeat is a multiple of 6 + 1, so you can easily adjust the length to suit your book.
Why You'll Love This Very Shelley Bookmark Pattern
I absolutely love this pattern because it takes a simple shell stitch and turns it into something so elegant and useful. I enjoy how quickly it works up — you can make several in an afternoon and gift them to friends. The design is flexible so I can change yarn colors and trims to match seasons or recipients. Each bookmark feels special to finish because adding a tiny button or tassel gives it a handcrafted flourish I am proud to share.
Switch Things Up
I love changing up colors to create different moods for this bookmark; soft neutrals feel vintage while bright tones are playful.
I often change the yarn weight and hook to make minis or chunky versions — try a DK or sport weight for a slightly thicker bookmark.
I sometimes add embroidery over a shell to personalize with initials or a tiny motif for gifts.
Swap the button for a small charm or bead to match the recipient's taste; wooden buttons give a rustic look while metal charms look elegant.
Adjust the starting chain to make more or fewer shells for a shorter or longer bookmark — simply keep the chain a multiple of 6 plus 1.
If you want a tassel instead of a button, make a small tassel from the same yarn and attach it to the tail for a boho vibe.
I like to make sets in coordinating colors so they become a pretty bookmark bundle to gift.
Try linen or cotton yarns for a crisp, flat bookmark, or go for a soft acrylic if you want a cozier feel.
For a special finish, lightly block the bookmark to open up the shell motifs and make the edges sit beautifully.
I also experiment with beaded tails — string a few beads onto the tail before knotting off to add weight and sparkle.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
✗ Failing to chain the correct starting number will throw off the shell repeat; recount your chains so your starting chain is a multiple of 6 plus 1 before continuing.
✗ Forgetting that the first ch3 counts as a stitch can change your stitch placement; always treat the turning ch3 as the first double crochet and adjust counts accordingly.
✗ Skipping stitches or miscounting shells when working down the opposite side will create an uneven bookmark; mark the centre of your chain and count shells on both sides for symmetry.
✗ Pulling yarn too tightly while making shells results in a distorted lacy edge; keep an even, relaxed tension so shells sit flat and consistent.
✗ Not securing the tail or button properly can cause the decoration to come loose; fasten off with a long tail and sew the button or bead securely with a needle and thread.
