Design Doodler: Embroider Chic Bookmarks from Fabric Scraps

Transforming your leftover fabric scraps into chic, practical projects has never been more effortless! This delightful upcycling project was created by Linda Rayburn. As fellow embroiderers, we understand the ever-growing pile of "I can use that later" fabric scraps. Today, it's time to bust them out and create chic bookmarks for your friends, family, or yourself! Did we mention that they’re also super easy and budget-friendly?

Unleashing Your Creativity with the Design Doodler

Using the Design Doodler’s intuitive tools, even the smallest fabric pieces can become stunning accessories for your favourite reads. Let’s explore the magic of upcycling and unleash your imagination to create unique bookmarks. If you’re new to the Doodler, try a free Design Doodler demo to easily turn your doodles into stitches without any digitising skills required! Grab your Design Doodler Software, and let’s get stitching!

How To Doodle Your Embroidered Bookmark

Here’s a step-by-step guide to doodling your embroidered bookmark:

• Step 1: Click 3 dots to change the Measurement settings to Imperial - inches. Click Close.
• Step 2: Select Running Stitch and drag out a square.
• Step 3: Select the square, open the Properties Icon, and select Transform. Make sure 'Maintain Aspect Ratio' is unchecked. Change the width to 2” and height to 7”.
• Step 4: Unselect the square and change the Measurement setting back to Metric. Select the square, copy and paste it twice. You will now have 3 rectangles.
• Step 5: Open the Sequence Docker and the Color Palette. Change the colour of the second and third rectangles to differentiate them.
• Step 6: Make sure Snap to Anchor is selected, indicated by a grey highlight.
• Step 7: Select Bean Stitch and the Freehand Shape tool. Starting at the top left corner, doodle a stippling pattern inside the rectangle. Ensure lines do not cross over. If you lift your pen, you will see a black dot on the last stitch. Hover your pen over this dot to continue doodling from where you left off.
• Step 8: Select the first rectangle, copy and paste it. The copied rectangle will be at the bottom of the Sequence Docker. Open the Properties Docker, change the stitch length to 4.5mm, choose Bean Stitch, and set it to 7 passes of thread.
• Step 9: Click the save icon, name and save this design as a JDX file. (JDX is the working editable file in the Design Doodler.)
• Step 10: Select the save icon again, scroll down to find your machine format, and save it.

Supplies Needed

Before you start, gather the following supplies:

- Fabric Scraps - No-Show Mesh Stabilizer - 3” x 8” Batting - 6” x 8” Fabric - Heat n Bond LITE - Masking Tape - Spray Adhesive - Scissors - Rotary Cutter - Ruler - Iron - Parchment paper - Optional: Grommet, Crop a Dile to cut and set Grommet, Ribbon, or Tassel

Making Your Embroidered Bookmark

Now, let’s get into the actual making of the bookmark:

• Step 1: Iron on a piece of Heat n Bond LITE to the right side of the base fabric. Remove the paper backing.
• Step 2: Use your fabric scraps and randomly place them over the Heat n Bond. Trim where necessary to ensure no large pieces fail to be held in place by the adhesive.
• Step 3: Place parchment paper over the fabric scraps and iron to secure them in place.
• Step 4: Use a rotary cutter to cut the scrap fabric in half, dedicating one for the front and one for the back of the bookmark.
• Step 5: Stitch the placement line and remove the hoop. Lay the batting over the top and secure it with tape.
• Step 6: Stitch the tackdown line and remove the hoop. Trim away excess batting. Lightly spray the back of one scrap fabric piece with adhesive, place it over the batting, smooth it, and secure with tape.
• Step 7: Turn the hoop over to repeat with the other scrap fabric piece. Carefully place the hoop on your machine to ensure the bottom fabric is secure. Stitch the tackdown line and the rest of the design. Remove the hoop and carefully trim 1/8” away from the rectangle Bean Stitch.
• Step 8: Optional: Add a grommet by using a Crop A Dile or hole cutter. Attach the grommet and add a ribbon or decorative tassel.

Congratulations! You’ve now turned your fabric scraps into a functional, stylish bookmark. Adding flair to your reading experience is that easy!

First Trim's Hot Take

This fabulous project not only helps you declutter your fabric stash but also allows you to practise your embroidery skills in a fun and creative way. At First Trim, we believe every scrap has potential, and with tools like the Design Doodler, the possibilities are endless. So grab your fabric scraps and let your creativity flow!

Original Article: https://www.digitizingmadeeasy.com/design-doodler-bookmarks-from-fabric-scraps/