Creating A Cross Stitch Bookmark For Someone Special

Most cross stitch fans love creating something special for family and friends. Often, they stitch a card to commemorate a special occasion or holiday. These cards are beautiful and are greatly admired by their recipients. But after a time, the cards are stored away and forgotten. A better idea might be to give a specially designed bookmark as a present.

Think about the possibilities. Not only can a cross stitch bookmark carry a personalized message just like a card can, but it also will be used time and again. Moreover, your friends will think of you each time they settle down with a good book. What better way to be remembered?

There are a few principles to bear in mind if you are considering making bookmark presents.

Start by thinking of a pattern that in some way reflects the personality of the recipient. For instance, does your friend like to garden or have a beloved flower? How about a craft or hobby he or she enjoys? Stitching a bookmark is easy and doesn't take long because the pattern is, by necessity, small and simple. So pick just one element that signifies what this person likes and use that for your cross stitch bookmark.

Children may be encouraged to read by being given their very own bookmark, with a favourite cute character stitched onto it to make it personal for them.

A bookmark kit may be the best way for you to get started. A kit contains everything you'll need. Inside the kit you'll find instructions, thread in the amount and colors you'll need, and cross stitch material. Keep the instructions so you can use them the next time you create a cross stitch bookmark. When choosing a kit, look for a pattern that matches the interests of the person your gift is for.

As a general rule, a bookmark is tall and narrow. It should slip easily between the pages of a book. Don't use floss that is thick or fuzzy, since this could make it difficult to close the book. When you're determining the exact dimensions for your bookmark, give some thought to the reading choices of your friend. If your friend reads hardcovers, create a longer bookmark than if he or she prefers paperbacks. Generally, you'll want the finished bookmark to be no longer than nine inches but no shorter than six inches (15 to 22cm). Regarding the width, many stitchers prefer to keep the bookmark around two and a half inches (6.5cm).

When you're ready to start, measure and cut the aida or evenweave material. Since you don't want the fabric to fray, cover the edges with a pretty piece of ribbon or edge binding. One cute technique some stitchers use is to create a fringed edge on the bookmark. You do this by cutting a piece of fabric larger than the intended bookmark and then carefully fraying around each side. You'll want the frayed edges to be the same length. To prevent the fraying from continuing once you're done creating the fringe, use an anti-fray glue or spray.

After you've cut out the fabric and secured the edges, you're ready to create the design. Locate a pattern you like. Magazines are a great place to locate patterns, as are books. Better yet, create your own pattern. Simply use a piece of graph paper and draw out your design. As always, each stitch is signified by a square on the paper.

As you work, you'll want to make your stitching as tidy as possible. When you finish, glue a ribbon fragment onto the back so you can neatly cover the underside. Keep your knots small to avoid any bumps.

Another way you can add a little pizzazz to a bookmark is by folding the bottom into a point. The triangle point gives the bookmark extra flare and is a perfect place to hang a pretty tassel, perhaps one with a bead or other decoration.

After you've completed your bookmark, you'll want to iron it. Place a towel both over and under the bookmark, and then carefully press. Make certain the heat isn't too high since you don't want to hurt your project.

Stitching bookmarks is fun and easy. After you've done a few, you may decide you really enjoy making bookmarks for gifts. These projects take very little time. Let your creativity run wild and see what you can make.

More importantly, think how delighted your friends will be when they receive a beautiful cross stitch bookmark. Unlike a stitched card, which may end up forgotten in a drawer, a personalized bookmark is sure to be treasured for years.