There's more to embroidered bookmarks than pre-finished rectangular forms. Lots more! Use scraps, stash, beads, buttons, charms, ribbons, hooks, and any and all fabrics and fibers to make simple, smart, and swanky bookmarks.

The trick is in the finishing, except it's really not so tricky. In fact, it's easy!

In Bookmarks 101, we'll learn four general ways to finish bookmarks from scratch, including no-sew methods and three techniques that employ simple backstitching, whip stitching, and fringed edges. We'll discuss variations of each of the finishing methods, providing dozens of exciting options.

We'll investigate a variety of materials for adhering, backing, and embellishing, and we'll explore basic beading and wirework techniques and tools.

Together, we'll craft one-of-a kind bookmarks that are fully functional and fun to make and use.

This class does not address decorative patterns for bookmarks. The focus is on finishing, which can be decorative in its own right. Organize class models in a notebook with the text and notes so you can refer to them as you craft bookmarks in the future.

Choose your own materials

No kits are provided. We'll work with fabrics and fibers from your stash. Collect your scraps; we can put them to use!

Have these to get started:

• Fabrics of your choice, 3x3-inches and larger. I'll use aidas, linens, and evenweaves. If you have needlework doodles or UFOs, bring them; we can turn them into bookmarks!
• Size 8 pearl cotton or silk, any colors

Look for an e-mail invitation to join the Yahoo! Bookmarks 101 Group on October 17, 2010.

Get your needlework off the wall and into your life! Stitch a fabulous, fully-customized bracelet. Four lessons will guide you step-by-step from start to finish. Download instructions and diagrams (Adobe Acrobat Reader required), then participate in group discussions and ask questions in our private Yahoo Group. Basic knowledge of needlework techniques required: beginning and ending threads, reading a diagram, etc.

Once you've learned the bracelet basics, you can alter the decorative stitch, change fabrics and fibers, and add beads and charms to create an infinite number of one-of-a-kind, perfectly sized bracelets.

Choose your own materials or purchase a kit

Our class pattern uses any 28-ct. linen or evenweave fabric, or 14-ct. Aida, and #8 pearl cotton. Seed beads, accent beads, and clasps complete the bracelets. Choose your favorite fabrics and fibers, or order a complete kit.

Kits contain 28-ct. Blueberry Meran from Zweigart® and DMC #8 Pearl cotton in red, green, yellow, and purple, along with a findings pack with all the necessary beading supplies.

Class outline

During the class you will learn how to customize your bracelet for a perfect fit, and receive tips and tricks from Jen and fellow classmates.

• Lesson 1: The Decorative Stitch
• Lesson 2: Edge Finishing
• Lesson 3: Back Finishing
• Lesson 4: Stringing beads and clasps

Download instructions, diagrams, and images, then participate in group discussions and ask questions in our private Yahoo! Group any hour of the day, at your convenience.

Basic knowledge of needlework techniques required: beginning and ending threads, reading a diagram, etc.

Note: the above patterns are not included in this class.

Once you've learned the bracelet basics, you can alter the decorative stitch, change fabrics and fibers, and add beads and charms to create an infinite number of one-of-a-kind, perfectly sized bracelets.

I hope you'll join us. I look forward to stitching with you!

Watch this space for future class dates.