Using Up Fabric Scraps

How many of us have heaps and mounds of scrap fabric just calling out to be used in some way? I'm always trying to think up new ways to make use of this fabric supply. One of my recent projects was this quick and easy fabric bookmark. Here's what you'll need:

• Scrap fabric
• Cardboard (cereal boxes are perfect)
• Grommet punch (optional)
• Ribbon (optional)

Fold the fabric in half. Cut out a rectangle with one long edge on the fold. The size doesn't really matter, just eyeball it. Fold right sides together and stitch 2 sides (depicted by the black lines on the right) leaving one short end open. Cut out a piece of cardboard the same size as the fabric rectangle. Cut out a small square (as seen on the right) in the top centre of the cardboard. This will make way for the grommet hole later. Next, insert the cardboard into the fabric sleeve you have just made. Make sure the end with a square cut out is inserted first. Turn the raw edges inside 1/4 inch and top stitch closed. For added decoration, cut a small hole in the top centre of the bookmark (there should be a space in the cardboard, so you only have to cut through fabric). Using a grommet punch, insert a grommet hole. Then thread a thin ribbon through the hole using a slip knot.


Caution:  This becomes very addictive after you've made a few. I made 7 bookmarks in one sitting!