Today I am sharing the perfect project for a cold, snowy day. Our winter embroidered paper bookmarks patterns are a great companion for reading this chilly season. We include a free pattern so you can make these at home yourself!
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. View privacy policy and disclaimer here.
Last year I dabbled in some paper embroidery projects and fell in love!
It all started with some simple fall bookmarks, and since then I have added paper bookmarks for book lovers, Christmas tags, and more!
Several people reached out for more paper bookmark patterns as well as seasonal themed embroidery, so I’m combining the two today with these winter embroidered paper bookmarks!
I also am including a free pattern for the bookmarks + a bonus winter embroidery pattern below!
As always, let’s talk materials for this project!
Materials:
Materials needed for these embroidered paper bookmarks:
- 2 blank white cardstock bookmarks – these ones come with tassels!
- Embroidery floss
- Sewing needles
- Pattern – here’s a free one from me! (I have a bonus freebie below!)
- Scissors
How to Embroider on Cardstock
1. Using pencil, sketch your design where you want on the bookmark. (Or use my free pattern!) See notes below on how to trace this pattern.
2. Thread your needle* using three strands.
3. When stitching the designs, I use four main stitches:
Straight stitch – I used the straight stitch for the snowflakes and branches on the tree.
Stem stitch – the stem stitch can be used for the tree trunks and outline of snowman.
Satin stich – I used the satin stitch to fill the snowman’s hat.
French knot – for the snowman’s eyes and mouth
4. Once you are happy with your design, you will attach a second bookmark using a running stitch*. Attaching a second bookmark will hide the ugly backside of your design, and create a border for your bookmark.
And that’s it! Simple enough to finish in one or two sittings!
Winter Embroidered Paper Bookmarks Patterns
Today I am sharing the perfect project for a cold, snowy day. Our winter embroidered paper bookmarks patterns are a great companion for reading this chilly season. We include a free pattern so you can make these at home yourself!
Materials
- 2 blank white cardstock bookmarks
- Embroidery floss
- Sewing needles
- Pattern
- Scissors
Instructions
1. Using pencil, sketch your design where you want on the bookmark. (Or use my free pattern!) See notes below on how to trace this pattern.
2. Thread your needle* using three strands.
3. When stitching the designs, I use four main stitches:
Straight stitch – I used the satin stitch for the snowflakes and branches on the tree.
Stem stitch – the stem stitch can be used for the tree trunks and outline of snowman.
Satin stich – I used the satin stitch to fill the snowman's hat.
French knot - for the snowman's eyes and mouth
4. Once you are happy with your design, you will attach a second bookmark using a running stitch*. Attaching a second bookmark will hide the ugly backside of your design, and create a border for your bookmark.
Notes
How do I keep my sketches clean?
Using paper for embroidery makes it difficult to trace a pattern. You can cut out the pattern to trace, but it does tend to be easier to sketch it out. If you’re worried about your drawing skills, don’t fret!
When sketching your design, it may be helpful to use simple dots or faded lines so it can be easily covered by your thread, or erased later!
What kind of stitches should be used on embroidered paper projects?
For this project, I stuck with satin stitch, stem stitch, and the French knot throughout. I use a running stitch to create the border around the bookmark. This also holds the two bookmarks together.
If you tried these bookmarks at home, I would LOVE to see them over on Instagram! @homesweetharps
Notes:
How do I keep my sketches clean?
Using paper for embroidery makes it difficult to trace a pattern. You can cut out the pattern to trace, but it does tend to be easier to sketch it out. If you’re worried about your drawing skills, don’t fret!
When sketching your design, it may be helpful to use simple dots or faded lines so it can be easily covered by your thread, or erased later!
What size sewing needle should be used for embroidering on paper?
Remember, when working with cardstock, you want to use a small sewing needle. You’re working with paper, so making large holes can cause tears, and won’t allow you to keep your stitches close together. Stick with size 8 or 9.
What kind of stitches should be used on embroidered paper projects?
For this project, I stuck with satin stitch, stem stitch, and the French knot throughout. I use a running stitch to create the border around the bookmark. This also holds the two bookmarks together.
Running Stitch Helpful Hint:
When doing the running stitch, you can use your thumb nail as a stitch guide! Simply mark the size stitch you want with pen or marker, and use that to keep your stitches the same length. (Example in photo above).
Bonus:
If you’re looking to combine these winter patterns and transfer them to fabric, I did the work for you!
Click here to get my free winter pattern.
I love to create and share simple patterns with you. They are scattered throughout my posts, so I combined them here for you to check out:
Other Free Patterns for You!
- Book Lovers Bookmarks
- Fall Bookmark Patterns
- Christmas Tree Embroidery Pattern
- Thanksgiving Embroidery Printable
- Christmas Tree Sweatshirt Pattern
I love this! Such a fun project to make & gift!😁
Thanks Penny!
I clicked on your website and was immediately captivated when I saw your picture at the top. These are so adorable! What a great gift idea for the bookworms in your life. Several come to mind instantly. Meself included, lol. Love this project, thanks so much for sharing!
Thank you Heidi, I have loved making these embroidered bookmarks for friends (and myself!!)
This is such a neat idea. My daughter and I will be sitting in front of the fireplace and stitching bookmarks during the winter storm tonight. Thank you for the idea!
Thanks Hayley – enjoy the cozy project!
These are such a fun idea! I’ve wanted to learn more embroidery… and these look like a great way to get started!
Thank you Haley!!