What Size Are Obituary Bookmarks?

Among the many memorial keepsakes available, memorial bookmarks are a popular and cherished option. These compact tributes combine visual beauty with meaningful content in a format that’s practical, elegant, and timeless. But one of the most commonly asked questions is: what size are obituary bookmarks, and does size matter when designing or printing them?

Standard Dimensions of Memorial Bookmarks

While there is some variation depending on personal preferences and regional printing standards, most memorial bookmarks measure approximately 2 inches to 2.5 inches wide and 6 inches to 7 inches tall. The most common size used in the U.S. funeral stationery industry is 2.5” x 7”. This dimension provides just enough space to include essential details, a photo, and a brief message, while remaining slim enough to fit into most books or Bibles.

Designers prefer this size because it balances readability with compactness. Whether laminated or printed on heavy cardstock, these bookmarks remain portable and durable—perfect for handing out at funerals, memorials, or mailing to loved ones after a service.

Why Size Matters in Design

When planning your layout, the size of the bookmark influences how much information you can include without making the design feel cramped. For example, a 2.5” x 7” bookmark offers enough room to include a high-resolution photo of your loved one, their name and dates, a brief poem or scripture, and possibly a quote or message from the family. If you go smaller, you may be limited in text or have to reduce font sizes, which can affect readability.

Because bookmarks are often shared with guests of all ages, including seniors, it’s important to use clear fonts and adequate spacing. A well-sized layout ensures that your message is not only heartfelt but also easy to read and appreciate.

Common Sizes and Their Benefits

• 2” x 6”: A minimalist format ideal for shorter tributes or simple designs with fewer elements.
  
• 2.5” x 7”: The industry standard, offering room for a photo, name, dates, quote, and short poem or verse.
  
• 3” x 8”: Less common but allows more content or larger text, best for expanded layouts or enhanced visuals.

Most template providers base their designs on these formats, with 2.5” x 7” being the most widely used. It offers a balance of space, elegance, and usability that makes it ideal for print and distribution.

Printing Considerations

When printing memorial bookmarks, you’ll want to ensure that your printer or print service can handle the custom size. If you're printing at home, set up your document size accordingly, or use templates from trusted providers that already include the correct dimensions and bleeds for cutting and trimming. Many people opt to print four bookmarks per sheet of 8.5” x 11” paper to maximize efficiency before trimming each one to size.

For professional printing, most local and online print shops accept templates in 2.5” x 7” format and can laminate or add tassels if desired. Be sure to verify dimensions before uploading files to avoid stretching or cropping during the print process.

Design Tips for Different Sizes

Smaller bookmarks, such as 2” x 6”, are best for minimalist designs. These are ideal if you plan to include just a photo, name, and a brief quote or scripture. Use white space intentionally, and stick to 1–2 font styles for clean readability. These are especially useful for quick handouts or mailing inside thank-you notes.

Larger sizes like 2.5” x 7” or 3” x 8” offer the chance to create more detailed tributes. This could include a full obituary, a longer poem, or dual-sided designs with separate content on front and back. These work well as keepsakes and can be personalized with photos, background themes, and artwork that reflect the life of the individual being remembered.

Front and Back Layout Options

Many memorial bookmarks are double-sided. The front side typically contains:

• Photo of the loved one
• Full name
• Birth and passing dates
• A short phrase like “In Loving Memory”
  

The back side may include:  

• A prayer, poem, or scripture
• A favorite quote or saying
• A thank-you message from the family

This two-sided format ensures that even within the limits of a 2.5” x 7” bookmark, you can include everything meaningful without cluttering the design.

Lamination and Finish Considerations

Many families choose to laminate their memorial bookmarks to protect them from wear and tear. A standard laminated finish adds durability and a smooth texture while preserving the ink and preventing fading over time. Laminated bookmarks tend to hold their shape better and can be enhanced with punched holes and ribbon tassels for added elegance.

If you prefer to print at home, you can purchase self-sealing laminating sleeves or use a laminating machine. Just ensure that the final trimmed size still fits comfortably in books or cards if you plan to mail or distribute them after the service.

Matching With Other Memorial Stationery

Bookmarks can be designed to match funeral programs, prayer cards, thank-you notes, and even memory boards. Coordinated stationery brings a sense of visual harmony to the memorial service and offers guests a complete set of printed materials that honor your loved one from start to finish.

Using a consistent color scheme, background, or font across all items adds professionalism and polish. Most stationery design providers offer packages or sets to help streamline the process and maintain a cohesive tribute.

When and How to Use Obituary Bookmarks

Memorial bookmarks are usually distributed at the funeral, wake, or celebration of life. They can be placed on ceremony chairs, included inside programs, or handed to guests as they arrive. They are especially appropriate when the family wants to offer a small, take-home item that guests can cherish beyond the day of the event.

They’re also ideal for mailing, whether as a follow-up thank-you or to include those who were unable to attend in person. Because of their slim size, they fit easily into standard envelopes without additional postage.

Personalizing for the Occasion

While the size remains consistent, the design and content should be tailored to reflect the personality of the deceased. A spiritual individual may have a bookmark filled with scripture, while an artist or musician might inspire creative typography or unique imagery. Regardless of style, make sure your design respects the tone of the service and conveys your love and remembrance sincerely.

Conclusion

The most common size for obituary bookmarks is 2.5” x 7”, offering the perfect balance of space and portability. This dimension is widely accepted across template providers and print services, making it easy to create, customize, and share meaningful keepsakes that honor a loved one’s life. Whether you’re designing a single-sided layout or a laminated, double-sided memorial, selecting the right size ensures your tribute is both elegant and enduring.

To explore beautifully designed templates and get started, you can view professionally formatted memorial bookmarks, memorial bookmarks, and memorial bookmarks online. With thoughtful planning, these keepsakes offer a powerful reminder of love, legacy, and the bonds that remain long after the farewell.