Free Celtic embroidery bookmark pattern

Celtic embroidery has always had a fascination for me. I really enjoyed creating this little blackwork bookmark using black floss and gold metallic thread for you. I hope you enjoy stitching it too.

What will you need?

• 28 count evenweave fabric approx: 9 inches by 5 inches
• stranded cotton in colour of your choice
• metallic thread in accent colour
• a size 26 tapestry needle

The fabric size I have quoted above will enable you to pop it into an embroidery hoop for working. In fact, stitch two, side by side, on the fabric - one to keep and one to give away, maybe? A stitched bookmark is a quick project and makes a splendid gift for a friend who likes to read.

Blackwork worked in double running stitch is a great technique to use for a bookmark, as many patterns can look the same on the back as they do on the front and therefore it won't need lining.

Therefore, I have given instructions for creating a fringed edge, although you could also use hemstitch.

Notes for following the pattern

You can download the pattern here.

I do all the stitching over two evenweave fabric threads, using one strand for the lines and two for the cross stitches, marked on the chart with a dot.

Other uses for the pattern

This pattern would make a lovely Celtic embroidery border on several items, such as curtains, or down the side of a pillow.

Talking of pillows, just one square could create a 12th scale pillow for a dollhouse. For this I would recommend using a 32 count evenweave and working in one strand throughout.

You could use another of my designs in this manner - my pincushion - found at the bottom of the blackwork samplers page.

Making the fringe

I finished the edges by adding a row of cross stitch around the outside, using 2 strands of floss.

Then I cut about half an inch outside the stitching and frayed the remaining evenweave fabric to create a fringe. With no backing needed, and no hem, this bookmark is super slim and fits easily between the pages of your book.

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