Autumn Leaf Bookmark

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1

   Cut and prepare your canvas

   Cut a strip of 14-count needlepoint canvas to 2.5 inches wide by 8 inches tall. Tape all four edges with masking tape to prevent fraying. The finished bookmark will be slightly smaller once the edges are finished. Mark the center of the canvas lightly with a pencil — this is where your leaf will sit.

2. 2

   Draw the leaf outline

   Using a waterproof marker, draw a simple oval leaf shape in the center of the canvas, about 1.5 inches wide and 3 inches tall. Add a center vein line running from the stem to the tip. Keep the shape simple — you're just creating a guide for your stitching, not a detailed illustration. Let the marker dry for a minute before stitching.

3. 3

   Stitch the leaf in autumn colors

   Thread a tapestry needle with 2 strands of orange embroidery floss, about 18 inches long. Start with a waste knot: push the needle down through the canvas front about 1 inch from where you'll start, leaving the knot on top. Begin filling the leaf with tent stitches, working from the bottom of the leaf upward. Switch to red floss for the upper half of the leaf and gold for the edges to create a natural gradient. Work the center vein in dark brown using a single straight stitch along the marked line.

4. 4

   Fill the background (optional)

   You can leave the background unstitched for a modern, minimal look, or fill it with cream or pale gold tent stitches for a more traditional finish. If you fill the background, use the continental stitch (working in horizontal rows) since the area is small. A filled background makes the bookmark more durable and gives it a more finished appearance.

5. 5

   Finish the edges and add a ribbon

   Trim the canvas to about 3 canvas holes from the outermost stitching. Fold the raw canvas edges to the back and secure with a few stitches or fabric glue. Work a whip stitch around the entire perimeter using a coordinating thread color — this covers the raw edge and adds a decorative border. Cut a 6-inch length of narrow satin ribbon, fold it in half, and stitch the loop to the top center of the bookmark. Clip the waste knot and weave in any loose ends on the back.