Reading Accessories Series: Part III October 13, 2023 Reading Accessory Series

Having  a bookmark for your book is not merely a fashion statement; it's a  safeguard for your literary investments. While the temptation to use a  scrap of paper, a tissue, or even a paperclip might arise, these  makeshift solutions can lead to irreversible damage. Corner-folding and  paperclips, in particular, can mar your book's pages, diminishing both  its aesthetic and monetary value.

 

Picture  this: you acquire a box of books at an auction, a treasure trove  waiting to be explored. However, as you delve into your newfound  collection, you discover the remnants of the past owner's careless  choices – paperclips leaving rusty imprints and stains, or forgotten  mementos lost between pages. These items, once cherished by someone, are  now orphaned, waiting for a reunion that might never happen.

 

In  my years of processing books for sale, I've unearthed forgotten family  photos, heartfelt notes, and various keepsakes, lost between the pages  and separated from their origins. It's a poignant reminder of how easily  memories slip away, buried within the leaves of a book. Occasionally, I  manage to trace back the origins and return these treasures, but more  often, they remain disconnected, lost in time.

 

But  worry not, for there’s a simple solution – the Handmade Bookmark.  Crafted with fabric and inner batting, these bookmarks offer more than  just a convenient placeholder. They provide structure and style,  ensuring your reading experience is both delightful and respectful of  your cherished books. With endless fabric choices and designs, it's an  opportunity to let your imagination run wild.

 

Don't  let your precious memories and valued books suffer the fate of neglect.  Embrace the elegance and functionality of a handmade bookmark,  preserving both your literary treasures and the stories held within the  pages.

 

With Joann just a stone's throw away for many shoppers or conveniently  accessible through postal delivery, the world of quality fabrics is  right at your fingertips. And if you think the options end there, think  again. The online sphere offers an expansive array of choices, with  Amazon leading the pack, providing a diverse selection of fabrics from  various designers. Hobby Lobby, too, stands as a viable option, offering  fabrics at reasonable prices.

 

But  what if your budget doesn't align with these options? Fear not, for the  realm of fabric is vast, and creativity knows no bounds.

 

Let's  talk about scraps. Do you have a collection of scrap fabrics? Perhaps  you know someone with a scrap fabric container – a treasure trove  waiting to be explored. I can assure you, anyone who crafts or sews has a  stash of these bits and pieces. These remnants, much like rabbits, seem  to multiply magically, taking on a life of their own. This is your  chance to dive into that treasure trove. Pull out those pieces that  catch your eye. And here's the beauty of it – they don't have to match.  They don't have to follow a theme. Your imagination is your only limit. 

 

While  you're at it, check for pieces of batting of the same kind and weight. A  few pieces stitched together seamlessly create a perfect foundation for  your creative projects. Those small pieces, Frankenstein-stitched  together, are your ticket to crafting wonders.

 

For  these delightful projects, I recommend the use of cotton fabrics,  perhaps mixing in some cozy flannels. Not only are they durable, but  they're also easy to clean, ensuring your creations stand the test of  time.

 

So, whether you're delving  into your scrap collection or exploring the options at your local  store, the world of fabric is ripe with possibilities. Embrace the  diversity, let your creativity soar, and craft your unique reading  accessories, one stitch at a time.

 

When  it comes to embellishing your bookmark, the choice is deeply personal,  and the possibilities are as vast as your imagination. How fancy or  simple do you want to go? Are you leaning towards something quirky or  perhaps a themed design?

Consider  adding a touch of lace to the edges for a romantic feel, a delicate  addition that looks exquisite tucked into the pages of that new romance  novel you’re eager to read.

 

Now,  let's talk about the pull top. What about using ribbon? Should it match  the fabric, create a contrasting effect, or maybe cording would suit  your design better? The length of the ribbon or cording is another  creative choice. Do you want it just long enough to open the book to  your current reading page? Or do you need a reference point for earlier  or later pages? In the latter case, make the ribbon or cording long  enough to reach those pages, extending gracefully to the bottom of the  page.

Alternatively, simplicity  can be its charm. Utilize scrap fabric creatively. A length of  approximately 4-5 inches and a width of 2.5 to 3 inches can craft a  perfect pull tab that harmonizes seamlessly with your bookmark.

 

However,  a word of caution: avoid using embellishments with dimension, such as  buttons, bling gems, or metal studs. While they might add visual appeal,  they can potentially damage the delicate pages of your book.

 

Remember,  your bookmark is not just a placeholder; it’s an expression of your  unique style and creativity. Let your choices reflect the joy of reading  and the delight of crafting, creating a bookmark that’s not only  functional but also a beautiful reflection of your personality.

 

Creating  bookmarks is surprisingly simple, requiring minimal tools yet resulting  in a high-quality product that proudly showcases your individuality.  When you present your finished creation and your family and friends  inquire, "Where did you get that?" you can confidently respond, "I made  it myself!"

While having a  domestic sewing machine makes the task easier, it’s not an absolute  essential. Simple needle and thread or floss work just as effectively.

 

Supplies and Tools:

•   Fabrics of choice
•   Batting or heavy-grade iron-in interfacing
•   A pair of scissors
•   A cutting mat with measurements or a tape measure
•   A rotary cutter (optional)
•   A straight edge ruler
•   Used dryer sheets (secret ingredient!)

Step 1: Cutting and Arranging Strips

 

Begin  by cutting your scrap fabrics into strips of varying widths. The  lengths of these strips will depend on the orientation you desire for  each piece on the dryer sheet. The only rule: avoid placing identical  fabrics side by side. Let your creativity run wild - mix and match  contrasting colors and tones for added visual interest.

 

Step 2: Assembling the Block

 

Place  your fabric strips right sides together and sew a 1/4 inch seam. Finger  press open and pin into place to lie flat. Repeat this process until  the entire dryer sheet is fully covered.

 

Step 3: Trimming and Pressing

 

Trim  excess fabric using the dryer sheet as your guide. Turn the finished  block over and admire your work. Press the block flat, being careful not  to distort its shape.

 

Step 4: Finding the Center

 

Measure the narrow width of the block to find the center or simply fold it in half and press to create a crease.

 

Step 5: Cutting into Halves

 

Cut  the block in half along the creased center line using either scissors  or a rotary cutter and straight-edged ruler. Measure the two halves for  length and width.

 

Step 6: Preparing Batting and Backing

 

Cut  batting and backing fabric to match the size of the two pieces of the  block that you have cut into halves (you'll need two pieces of batting  and two pieces of backing fabric).

 

Step 7: Assembling the Bookmark

 

Place  your stripped block pieces on top of the batting or interfacing with  the right side facing up. Next, place your backing fabric face down on  top of your block fabric. Pin the sides and bottom, leaving the top 1/3  free for turning down.

 

Step 8: Creating the Pull Tab

 

To  make a pull tab from fabric, cut a rectangle measuring 3 inches x 5  inches. Press the fabric lengthwise in half and then press each side so  the outside edges are laying next to the center creased line. Fold this  in half and top-stitch close to the open edge to close. Turn and  top-stitch along the other side for matching stitching.

 

Step 9: Attaching the Pull Tab

 

Fold  back the backing fabric to expose the block fabric. Mark the center of  the layered fabric/batting with a pin. Pin one end of the tab close to  the center, offsetting the other end slightly and pinning it next to the  first pinned end. The raw ends should be next to the edge of the block,  and the loop will be pointed toward the inside, toward the bottom.  Carefully top-stitch very close to the edge of the top to secure the  ends, backstitch, and repeat. If doing this step by hand, repeat the  stitch lines until fully secure. Return the backing fabric to meet with  the top, covering the loop, and pin it into place.

 

Step 10: Stitching Around the Bookmark

Starting  on a vertical side, begin stitching around the bookmark using a 1/4  inch seam. Stop stitching approximately 2-3 inches from the start of the  stitching, leaving an opening.

 

Step 11: Turning and Finishing

1. Trim the corners of the unit, carefully avoiding cutting into the stitch line.
2. Turn the corners inside out (actually outside in) using a small,  dull pointed chopstick or the end of a small paintbrush. Be cautious not  to push through the fabric.
3. Once turned, line up the edges of the front and back and carefully  press with a hot iron. Steam will help. At the opened area on the side,  turn the fabric in to create a seam allowance and pin it.
4. Sew an 1/8 inch from the edges, carefully closing the opening and continuing all the way around the bookmark.
5. Decide if you want any quilting on your new bookmark.     
   • For a little quilting, select three points that are equal distances from each other and sew lengthwise from top to bottom.
   • For a lot of quilting: sew along each of the seams of each fabric or create a cross-hatch design. This is entirely up to you!

Repeat steps 7 through 11 to complete your second bookmark. Now you have a backup or a thoughtful gift for a friend!

 

Happy  crafting! Your personalized bookmarks are not only functional but also a  testament to your creativity and attention to detail. Enjoy using them  in your favorite reads or gifting them to fellow book lovers.

 

Your new bookmarks can be machine washed and dried. Press with steam iron to flatten again if needed. 

 

Congratulations  on creating your own unique bookmarks! We hope you enjoyed this  creative journey as much as we did guiding you through it. Just to  recap, you've learned how to transform simple scrap fabrics into  personalized bookmarks, adding a touch of your unique style with various  embellishments.

Remember,  your bookmarks are not just placeholders; they're expressions of your  creativity and love for reading. Now, we encourage you to share your  creations with the world! We'd love to see what you've made. Take a  photo of your handmade bookmarks and share it on your favorite social  media platforms. Don't forget to tag us @ The Reading Well Handmade in your posts!

 

And  guess what? If doing this project on your own is more than you want to  devote time to, I have your covered. Check out the products in my store.  All items can be made to order or customized. 

 

Thank  you for joining us in this creative endeavor. Happy crafting and happy  reading! Let's spread the joy of reading, one personalized bookmark at a  time. Share your creations, and let's inspire others together!"

 

As  we wrap up this creative journey, we invite you to bring the magic of  handmade reading accessories into your life. Dive into our online store,  The Reading Well Handmade ,  where a world of pre-made handmade possibilities awaits. From vibrant  pre-made reading accessories to essential additions, our curated  collection is designed to enhance your reading experience.

 

Why  settle for ordinary when you can infuse your reading moments with the  charm of handmade elegance? Place your order now and let your creativity  soar. Your next reading adventure deserves a bookmark as unique and  special as the stories you love.

 

Thank  you for choosing us to be a part of your creative endeavors. Let's  craft a reading experience that's truly one-of-a-kind. Here's to many  more chapters of creativity and imagination!