How to Create a Beautiful Cross-Stitch 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.
A cross stitch bookmark is one of the most satisfying projects you can make. It's small enough to finish quickly, useful every day, and makes a thoughtful handmade gift for any book lover. Once the stitching is done, a neat finish turns it into something that looks and feels professional. Here's how to do it, step by step.
Materials Needed
- Your completed cross stitch piece (a bookmark kit is perfect)
- Sharp scissors
- Iron and ironing board, plus a pressing cloth
- Backing fabric, such as felt or cotton
- Needle and thread, or fabric glue
- Optional: Fray Check or clear nail polish
- Optional: ribbon, tassel or decorative trim
Step 1: Prepare Your Cross Stitch Piece
Trim the edges of your fabric, leaving about 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) of fabric around the stitching for finishing. If your piece needs freshening up, wash it gently first. Our guide on caring for your finished cross stitch explains how.
Lay the piece face down on a clean, fluffy towel, cover the back with a pressing cloth, and iron on a low setting. Pressing face down keeps your stitches raised and undamaged.
Step 2: Prepare the Backing
Cut your backing fabric to the same size as your trimmed piece. Felt is the easiest choice because it doesn't fray and gives the bookmark a little body. To stop either fabric from fraying, apply a thin line of Fray Check or clear nail polish along the edges and let it dry completely.
Step 3: Attach the Backing
Choose the method that suits you:
- Sewing method: Pin the two pieces wrong sides together. Sew around the edge about 1/4 inch (6 mm) in, using a running stitch or whip stitch. For a decorative edge, use a blanket stitch in a coordinating thread colour.
- Fabric glue method: Apply a thin line of glue around the edges of the backing, press the stitched piece on top and smooth it flat. Leave it to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions.
A neat back makes finishing much easier. If loose ends cause lumps, see mastering thread endings.
Step 4: Add Finishing Touches
Once the backing is secure, trim any uneven edges with sharp scissors for a crisp finish. Then personalise it: sew or glue a ribbon or tassel to the top, or add a decorative trim along the sides. Want even more sparkle? Try a few beads on the tassel.
Step 5: Final Pressing
Give your finished bookmark one last gentle press, using a pressing cloth to protect the stitches and fabric. It's now flat, neat and ready to use.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Bookmark!
Slip it into your current read or wrap it up as a gift. Handmade bookmarks are a lovely present for birthdays, teachers and book club friends. See why cross stitch makes a great gift and our thoughtful gift ideas using cross stitch kits.
Prefer to Watch?
Follow along with our video tutorial:
More Ways to Use Small Designs
Bookmarks are just one idea. Discover 10 creative ways to display your finished cross stitch, or see why small cross stitch designs bring so much joy.
Stitch Your Own Bookmark
Our bookmark kits feature famous artworks and charming designs, sized perfectly for a quick, rewarding finish.
Using your own supplies? Browse our bookmark patterns. For something spooky, try The Scream Bookmark Kit.
