Found in a book lovers raffle basket. Wooden object with 2 small holes & 1 large hole. What is this?
If you’ve ever tried to read while holding a coffee, knitting, riding in a car, or studying at a desk, you know how annoying it is when pages won’t stay put. A cat-shaped wooden page holder is a simple, clever solution: a small wooden piece with a thumb slot that gently spreads and holds your book open so you can read with less effort.
What It’s Called
This accessory is commonly sold as a Wooden Book Page Holder, Thumb Page Holder, or Cat-Shaped Page Holder. The design shown in the images features a cute cat silhouette, making it both functional and decorative.
What It’s Used For
The main job is straightforward: keep book pages open hands-free (or at least “hands-relaxed”). You slide your thumb through the center hole, place the holder along the spine area of an open book, and it applies light pressure to both sides so the pages don’t flip back.
It’s especially useful for:
- Reading while drinking coffee/tea
- Studying and taking notes
- Travel reading (bus, train, passenger seat)
- One-handed reading when your other hand is busy
- Reducing hand fatigue during long reading sessions
Key Features (From the Product Shown)
- Material: Natural wood
- Design: Cat-shaped, smooth carved edges
- Thumb hole size: Fits comfortably with a 2.2 cm thumb hole
- Function: Holds pages open for easier reading
- Feel: Lightweight, ergonomic, and durable for everyday use
When It First Appeared
The concept of holding pages open isn’t new—readers have used page weights and simple page-holding tools for a long time. However, the modern “thumb ring” style wooden page holder—especially cute shapes like cats—became widely popular in recent years as a handmade gift and a small everyday “reading upgrade,” commonly found through craft makers and online marketplaces.
Why People Like It
What makes this accessory stand out is how it combines comfort and personality:
- It’s a practical tool that solves an everyday reading problem.
- The cat shape adds a fun, giftable aesthetic without looking childish.
- It turns reading into a more relaxed experience by keeping your grip light and natural.
A Small Gift That Feels Thoughtful
Because it’s affordable, useful, and charming, a wooden cat page holder is often chosen as a gift for book lovers, students, teachers, and anyone who reads regularly. It’s the kind of item people don’t always think to buy for themselves—but end up using all the time once they have one.
