How do i make bookmark out of cross stitch aida/cloth?

Question

to be more specific i want to know how to add stiffness to it?i dont want it too thick either...

Answer 1

The best thing to use for bookmarks is aida band, and once you finish sewing it, just cut a matching sized piece of iron-on buckram and iron it to the wrong side of your bookmark. This is what I have done with my cross-stitched bookmarks.

Answer 2

Beginning with an Aida band with pre-finished edges simplifies things.  If you're using plain Aida, I suggest stitching neatly and then using stitch-witchery or similar material to attach a rectangle of color-fast silk or polyester lining fabric to the back of the stitched area.

Create a satin-stitch edging through the Aida and lining fabric *either* by hand or by sewing machine.  You can leave a fringe on four sides of the Aida (beyond the satin stitch) or trim the Aida close to the satin stitching.

In my experience, this is the most light-weight lining method.  The result can be carefully hand-laundered if all the threads and the lining are water-fast.

The only lighter-weight method is to be so totally tidy that the item is left unlined to exhibit the expertise.  In this case, make the satinstitch wider/deeper, just for the stiffening effect.  The quicky method here is to run a line of washable school glue close to where you intend to trim, let it dry, and satinstitch over that (makes the fabric easier to handle).