Finishing a Bookmark

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.

Or watch this video!