Expert: Angela - 7/14/2003

Question
I am creating book marks on Aida and would like to back them with a felt material.  I am new to cross stitching and would appreciate any guidance/suggestions on what I need to do to "Put it all together" once I have completed the cross stitch pattern.

Answer
Hello, Rose. :)

The best product that I have found to secure any material on the back of a bookmark is fabric glue.  You would need to glue the edges of the bookmark, first, and then dot some glue on the back of the bookmark.  Next, place the piece of felt onto the back of the bookmark and then gently press down.  Be sure to measure the felt precisely to the bookmark, otherwise you'll have the felt backing showing behind the bookmark along the edges.

Also, when you have completed your bookmark, be sure to use a craft fabric protector on it, such as Scotch Gard for crafts.  This will ensure that the stitching and the bookmark don't become dirty with handling after you have completed it.  You will need to spray the front of it with this product, allow to dry, and then iron it on the back with an iron set for a medium setting.  The Scotch Gard WILL shrink the bookmark a bit, so be sure to measure the felt backing after the bookmark has dried and ironed.  DO NOT iron if you have used any metallic threads or blending threads in the pattern as ironing the stitches will damage these types of threads.

I hope that this helps.  Feel free to contact me again should you need more help. :)  Good luck, and happy stitching! :)

Sincerely,
Angela