Step 2: Creating the Hatband

Now that the basic shapes are cut out, it’s time to add a touch of color with the hatband.

• Purple Construction Paper: Cut a thin strip from the purple construction paper. This strip will serve as the hatband, adding a contrasting color to the otherwise black hat. The band should be straight and long enough to wrap around the bottom of the triangle, just above the brim.
• Adding the Buckle: To add a bit of flair, cut a small rectangular buckle from gold or yellow construction paper. This buckle will be glued to the center of the purple hatband, giving the hat a classic and stylish look.

This step encourages students to experiment with color and contrast. The purple hatband and gold buckle provide a visual break from the black of the hat, making the Witch Hat Bookmark more visually appealing.

Step 3: Assembling the Hat

With all the pieces cut out, it’s time to assemble the hat.

• Glue the Brim: Begin by gluing the curved brim to the bottom of the triangle. Make sure the brim is centered and aligned with the base of the triangle. Press down firmly to ensure the glue holds the pieces together.
• Attach the Hatband: Next, glue the purple hatband across the bottom of the triangle, just above the brim. The hatband should overlap slightly onto the brim, creating a seamless transition between the two parts of the hat. The buckle should be positioned in the center of the hatband.

Assembling the hat helps students practice spatial awareness and precision. They need to align the pieces correctly to create a well-proportioned Witch Hat Bookmark.

Step 4: Adding Decorations

Now that the hat is assembled, it’s time to let creativity shine by adding decorations.

• Markers and Paint: Use markers or paint to add decorative elements to the hat. In this case, consider using white, silver, and gold markers to draw stars, swirls, and other celestial designs on the hat. These decorations can be scattered across the hat, giving it a magical and enchanting appearance.
• Optional Decorations: For an extra touch of creativity, students can add glitter, stickers, or other decorative elements to their Witch Hat Bookmark. For example, a touch of silver glitter along the brim can give the hat a sparkling effect, while star-shaped stickers can add a three-dimensional element to the design.

This step allows students to express their individuality and creativity. While the basic shape of the Witch Hat Bookmark is the same for everyone, the decorations make each bookmark unique.

Step 5: Final Touches and Functionality

The final step is to ensure that the bookmark is functional and ready for use.

• Flatness: It’s important to ensure that the bookmark remains flat throughout the process. The flat design is essential because the Witch Hat Bookmark is intended to be slipped between the pages of a book. A flat, sleek design ensures that the bookmark won’t damage the pages or add unnecessary bulk.
• Testing the Bookmark: To test the functionality, students can place their finished Witch Hat Bookmark into a book. The pointed tip of the hat should stick out from the top of the book, making it easy to find their place. The brim of the hat should sit flush against the page, marking the spot securely.

This step reinforces the purpose of the project. While the Witch Hat Bookmark is decorative, it is also meant to be a practical tool that students can use in their reading.