1989 Bookmark Knitting Pattern (Free Printable)

Inspired by the dreamy pastels and nostalgia of Taylor Swift’s 1989 album, this lace bookmark is a perfect blend of pretty and practical.

Featuring a gentle eyelet motif and a soft shimmer of color, it’s an ideal stash-busting project for fans of music, reading, and knitting.

Whether you’re gifting it to a fellow Swiftie or keeping it for yourself, this is a quick knit you’ll want to make on repeat.

Before You Get Started

Here are a few things to know before you cast on:

• This pattern uses a small amount of fingering-weight yarn—ideal for leftovers from socks or shawls.
• Blocking is key to opening up the lace and creating a crisp, flat finish.
• This pattern is for personal use only.

Tools/Materials Needed

• Yarn – Fingering weight/4 Ply yarn – approx. 10g (40m)
• Sample Yarn – Dark Omen Yarn, Merino Sock Mini in Vaporwave Sky
• Needles – 3.5mm (US 4) straight or circular
• Notions – Darning needle, scissors, tape measure

1989 Bookmark Knitting Pattern Instructions

Size

• Length: 9 inches
• Width: 2 inches

Gauge

• 32 stitches / 36 rows = 10×10 cm (4″) in stockinette stitch

Abbreviations

• CO – cast on
• K – knit
• K2tog – Knit the next two stitches together (decrease)
• P – purl
• St(s) – stitch(es)
• Rep – repeat
• RS – Right side
• WS – Wrong side
• YO – Yarn to the front/yarn over

Instructions

Cast on 14 stitches.

Work 4 rows of garter stitch.

• Row 1 (RS): K2 (edge) K1, [K2tog, YO] x 4 times, K1, K2 (Edge).
• Row 2: K2, Purl to last 2 sts, K2.
• Row 3: K2 (edge) K1, YO [K2tog, YO] x 3 times, K2tog, K1, K2 (Edge).
• Row 4: K2, Purl to last 2 sts, K2.
• Rep rows 1-4 until the length measures = 8.5 inches.

When the work measures 8.5 inches, work 4 rows in garter stitch.

Cast off.

Weave in any loose ends/yarn tails.

Block the work.

Blocking + Finishing Tips

Why block it?

Lace patterns shine when blocked—it opens up the eyelets, straightens the edges, and enhances stitch definition.

How to block:

• Gently soak the bookmark in cool water for 10–15 minutes.
• Press out excess water with a towel (don’t wring!).
• Pin flat to the desired dimensions on a towel or blocking board.
• Let dry completely.

Optional: Add a tassel for a personalized touch.

Related Post: How To Make A Tassel (Easy DIY Tutorial)

FAQs & Extra Tips

→ Is this beginner-friendly?

Yes! It’s a great introduction to lace knitting with simple yarn overs and decreases.

→ Can I use other yarns?

Absolutely. Just stick to fingering weight for best results—and feel free to play with color!

→ How much yarn do I need?

Just around 10g or 40 meters—perfect for leftover sock yarn.

→ Can I add beads or a charm?

Yes! Beads can be threaded onto the tail or added to the tassel for a unique finish.

Free Printable

If you prefer to work from a printed pattern or just want a version you can take on the go, I’ve got you covered!

You can print the pattern below to keep it handy while you knit.

It’s a simple, easy-to-follow design that’s perfect for relaxing with a project you’ll actually use.