Before sewinginspo, my passion was reading books. I would spend days just reading the books until it ended. So when I got into sewing, why not collaborate on it? Incessantly, cross stitch bookmark ideas come to my mind.
But I didn’t do it before. So I asked my grandma how to do it. She said, ‘Oh, that’s easy! You just gotta,
Bookmark
To make a cross stitch bookmark, Cut and back your evenweave cross-stitch piece with felt and cardboard, then secure the edges with a stitch for a sturdy, handmade bookmark.
Her explanation sounds easy on the phone. But it might be a little difficult if I tried it alone. Let’s see how to put a back on a cross stitch bookmark.
Table of Contents
Do You Use A Hoop To Cross Stitch A Bookmark?
You can use a hoop to cross-stitch a bookmark, but do you need to? Not really. Bookmarks are small, not like pillow covers, and if you’re using Aida, it’s stiff enough to hold its shape.
A hoop might just get in the way—like trying to eat a taco with a knife and fork. But if your fabric is floppy and your stitches look wonky, a small hoop can help.
Don’t leave it on too long unless you want a permanent crease.
Cross Stitch Bookmark Tutorial
The idea sounded so good that I had to try it. Otherwise, I will have trouble sleeping. 😑 let me show you how I get things done. But first of all, I gathered the tools I needed.
Cross Stitch Bookmark Kits
Every Cross-stitch kit is a lifesaver if you want a quick one. Cross-stitch bookmark kits usually come with,
- Pre-Cut Fabric, Floss,
- A Needle And
- A Pattern
Some kits even include a backing or a tassel to give your bookmark that extra flair. Whether you’re into floral designs, cute animals, or inspirational quotes, there’s a kit for you.
Cross Stitch Bookmark Fabric
But I don’t wanna spend extra money on the kits. So I decided to make useful of some things I have from my previous cross stitch project. Since Evenweave is my favorite cross stitch fabric, I choose this.
This fabric gives your stitches that smooth, even look. It is perfect for detailed designs. Plus, it’s softer and more flexible than Aida, so your bookmark won’t feel like a piece of cardboard.
If you don’t have that, just buy a cross stitch bookmark blanks or a stamped pattern it.
But now got everything. Ok, now let’s get into the bookmark making process,
Measure & Mark Your Bookmark Dimensions
Decide how big you want your bookmark to be. A standard bookmark size is around 6 cm wide by 16 cm long, but you can adjust it based on your design. If you are confused here then use a cross stitch fabric size calculator.
- Use a ruler and pencil to mark the dimensions on your evenweave fabric.
- Leave at least 1–2 cm of fabric around your stitched area to allow space for finishing.
- If you don’t want visible pencil marks, use a fabric marking pen that disappears with water or heat. This trick also works with Rolis cross-stitch.
Cut Out Your Cross-Stitch Piece
Now that you’ve marked your fabric, it’s time to cut it out carefully. Use sharp fabric scissors to ensure clean edges.
Follow your markings precisely to maintain straight lines. Try not to fray the edges—handle the fabric gently.
Cut & Prepare the Sticky-Backed Felt
This will give your bookmark a nice, sturdy backing while hiding the stitches on the back of your cross-stitch.
- Place your sticky-backed felt on a flat surface.
- Use your ruler to measure and cut it to the same size as your cross-stitch fabric.
- If you want a layered look, you can cut it slightly larger than your fabric to create a colored border.
Add Cardboard for Extra Support
Evenweave fabric is soft. So, it won’t be fixable enough to be a bookmark. So, adding cardboard inside will give it structure.
Cut the cardboard slightly smaller than your fabric and felt. This allows room for stitching around the edges. Place it between the cross-stitch fabric and the felt backing before sealing them together.
Attach the Felt Backing to Your Cross-Stitch
Now, it’s time to put everything together!
- Peel off the sticky back from the felt and carefully place the cardboard on it.
- Then, align your cross-stitch piece on top, ensuring all edges match up.
- Press everything together firmly to secure it.
Cross Stitch Bookmark Finishing
Ok, I’m done with the cutting, and now it’s time to secure all those things together. I’ll stitch two layers for a nice, clean finish with the matching thread.
I’ll slip my needle through the inside layer. Make sure the knot is tucked away so it doesn’t peek out later. A little stitchy magic trick, if you will.
Now for the fun part—the stitching itself.
I’ll move one stitch away from where I started…
Why is it that the first stitch always takes the longest to find?
Then, I’ll return my needle to meet the previous stitch, forming a neat little border.
And that’s it!
Just repeat all the way around until the edges are securely stitched together and look fabulous. By the end, you will get the perfect looking bookmark.
How To Make A Counted Cross Stitch Bookmark?
That’s the normal cross stitch bookmark, but if you want to experiment with all types of cross stitch, you can do it too. I love counted cross stitches. So I thought, why not use it?
Here is how you can do it,
- Evenweave or Aida works best. Cut it to your preferred size.
- Use a simple design that fits within the bookmark shape.
- Use embroidery floss and follow your pattern, counting stitches carefully.
- Trim excess fabric and either hem, use fray check, or back it with felt.
- Add a border, tassel, or decorative stitching for extra flair.
Boom—your handmade bookmark is ready to save your spot in style! You can even make bookmarks using English cross stitch methods.
Cross Stitch Bookmark Patterns Free PDF
Loved the idea? I know you did love it. That’s why I gathered some patterns and made a pdf of it. Download it
Frequently Asked Questions
What fabric is best for a cross stitch bookmark?
Evenweave or Aida fabric (14- to 18-count) works great. Evenweave gives a smoother look, while Aida is beginner-friendly.
Do I need a hoop to stitch a bookmark?
Not necessarily! A small piece like a bookmark can be stitched without a hoop, but if you prefer more tension, go for it.
How do I prevent fraying on the edges?
You can hem the edges, use fray check, or back it with felt for a clean finish.
Sum Up
And there you have it—your very own handmade cross stitch bookmark! Not only will it keep your place in your favorite book. But it’ll also remind you of your stitching skills every time you open it.
Who needs boring store-bought bookmarks when you can make one that screams, “I made this!”?
Now go forth, stitch more, and maybe—just maybe—finish that book you’ve been meaning to read! 📖✨
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