Imagine picking up your book and finding a little garden stitched into your bookmark. That’s the magic of embroidered paper bookmarks.

Using colorful threads, you can turn simple cardstock into a lively canvas for flowers, leaves, or even geometric patterns.

It’s a brilliant way to experiment with embroidery without committing to fabric projects.

The result is bright, textured, and full of personality, perfect for gifting or keeping all to yourself.

Materials Needed

• Cardstock sheets (8.5" × 11", cut into strips 2" × 6")
• Embroidery floss (assorted colors, 6-strand skeins)
• Embroidery needle (size 5 or 7, sharp tip)
• Pencil for sketching patterns (1 piece)
• Ruler for measuring and centering designs (1 piece)
• Awl, safety pin, or thumbtack
• Scissors (1 pair for thread and paper)
• Optional: Backing paper or washi tape to cover stitches on reverse side

Step-by-step Guide

Step 1: Cut your cardstock into bookmarks (2" × 6"). Then round the corners with scissors for a softer look if desired.

Step 2: Lightly sketch your embroidery design on the paper with pencil. Simple floral or leaf patterns work beautifully.

Step 3: Use an awl or thumbtack to punch small holes along your drawn lines, spacing them about 1/8" apart to guide your stitching.

Step 4: Thread your needle with embroidery floss (use 2-3 strands for cleaner lines). Start stitching through the pre-punched holes using a backstitch or running stitch.

Step 5: Continue stitching along your design, switching colors to add contrast and detail. Knot securely at the back after each section.

Step 6: If the reverse side looks messy, glue a piece of plain cardstock over the back to hide knots and give extra durability.

Step 7: Press the finished bookmark under a heavy book overnight to flatten any slight warping from stitching.

Tips:

Use bright, contrasting thread on darker cardstock for a bold look, or soft pastels on white for something delicate.

You can even try metallic thread for a festive shimmer.