Finishing a cross-stitched bookmark is a fun and rewarding process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you turn your cross-stitch project into a beautifully finished bookmark.
Materials Needed
– Completed cross-stitch bookmark piece
– Scissors
– Iron and ironing board
– Backing fabric (felt, cotton, or other fabric)
– Needle and thread or fabric glue
– Fray check or clear nail polish (optional)
– Ribbon or decorative trim (optional)
Step 1: Prepare Your Cross-Stitch Piece
1. Trim the Edges – Carefully trim the edges of your completed cross-stitch piece, leaving about 1/2 inch of fabric around the stitching. This extra fabric is for finishing.
2. Iron the Piece – Place your cross-stitch piece face down on a clean towel on your ironing board. Lay a pressing cloth (like another clean towel or cotton fabric) over the back of the piece. Iron on a low setting to remove wrinkles, making sure the stitches stay flat and undisturbed.
Step 2: Prepare the Backing
1. Cut the Backing Fabric – Cut your backing fabric to the same size as your trimmed cross-stitched piece.
2. Optional Step – Seal the Edges – To prevent fraying, you can apply fray check or clear nail polish along the edges of both your cross-stitched piece and the backing fabric. Let it dry completely.
Step 3: Attach the Backing
You can attach the backing fabric to your cross-stitched piece either by sewing or using fabric glue.
Option 1: Sewing Method
1. Pin the Pieces Together: Place the cross-stitched piece and the backing fabric wrong sides together, so the right sides are facing out. Pin them together.
2. Sew Around the Edges: Using a needle and thread, sew a small running stitch or whip stitch around the edges of the bookmark, leaving about 1/4 inch from the edge. If you want a decorative edge, you can use a blanket stitch.
Option 2: Fabric Glue Method
1. Apply Fabric Glue: Apply a thin line of fabric glue along the edges of your cross-stitched piece.
2. Press the Backing: Place the backing fabric on top of the glued area, wrong side down, and press firmly. Let the glue dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 4: Add Finishing Touches
1. Trim the Edges: Once the backing is securely attached, trim any uneven edges with sharp scissors to ensure your bookmark has a clean, finished look.
2. Optional Decoration: You can add a ribbon or decorative trim to the top of your bookmark for a polished touch. Simply sew or glue the ribbon in place.
Step 5: Final Pressing
Give your finished bookmark one last gentle press with the iron, making sure to place a pressing cloth over it to protect the stitches and fabric.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Bookmark!
Your bookmark is now complete! Use it to mark your place in a book, or gift it to someone special.
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