Perserving Bookmarks

[mermaidlegend]

I want to make a bookmark, but I'm not sure how to care for it since it will be in use a lot. Can you laminate the aida to keep the pattern in place without it coming apart.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

[QueenBex]

Usually you put a backing onto the bookmark to cover the back of the stitching. Usually the front of the stitching is left uncovered, which undoubtably will get dirty, some people wash them regularly.

I have never ever heard of cross stitch being laminated... If done carefully, I don't see why not.

I think how hardy a piece is, depends on the materials used, eg, if making a rug I'm pretty sure there is special rug thread fit for wear and tear. DMC thread is pretty hard wearing in most things.

At the end of the day its down to your own preferences. I'm sorry I can't be of much help with this, hope someone with more knowledge then me answers you soon! Good luck with your project (be sure to share pictures if you could!)

[stitchingmama]

That's a great question! I have no idea about laminating but my local cross stitch store has these plastic sleeves that are bookmark size to put your bookmarks in. Personally I don't protect my bookmarks since I love to stitch them so I don't mind replacing them.

[mermaidlegend]

I was thinking of a plastic aida since it would hold up better in the long run.

Thanks for the help

[Lalina]

You can buy protective sleeves like these ones: http://clearbags.ca/store/products/viny ... rk-sleeves
Personally, I usually just add a felt backing to stop the stitches from getting caught on anything. If I'm trying to be very careful (i.e. making a gift) I will also use a blanket stitch on the edging of the unfrayed part of the aida to keep it from fraying more (I tend to pull a few strands off of the edges of my bookmarks because I like the look but it is not a necessary step).

[kuja.girl]

I just wrote this in the chat box but I'll repeat it here: lamination won't work. Most lamination machines are only made for smooth/flat objects so something bumpy like cross stitch would result in a lot of air bubbles. If the lamination can machine also vacuum seal it, then maybe... but you'd also have to use a really thin plastic for it to not have air bubbles. In short, probably won't work and I wouldn't risk it with something you like/don't want damaged.

Another idea would be to seal it with a fabric medium or modge podge ...

The plastic sleeves are nice but I hate anything that makes it too thick personally :)