Children may be encouraged

　As cross stitchers, we love to create personalised cards for our nearest and dearest on birthdays, at Christmas or other special times. The chances are that these cards are much appreciated by the recipients, displayed prominently Nylon taffeta for a few days, and then perhaps placed in a drawer or a cupboard, where they will stay for many more months, rarely seen. Here's an idea...

　　Why not start creating bookmarks instead for your friends? The advantages are that they will be used as often as the recipient reads a book, and will be associated with good leisure time. Also, your message of friendship will be reaffirmed every time your friend or relative opens the book. It will be useful as well as being ornamental.

　　There are a few principles to bear in mind if you are considering making bookmark presents.

　　Firstly, your chosen design should have a great appeal for the recipient. What is the favorite color of this person? A favorite flower? A hobby? You can make the bookmark with these things in mind. Do remember that this will be a quick project, however.

　　Bookmarks are small, Polyester taffeta and therefore, you will not be able to incorporate every aspect of the person's likes and dislikes into this design. If your friend has lots of interests, you may consider what he or she most enjoys reading about.

　　Children may be encouraged to read by being given their very own bookmark, with a favourite cute character stitched onto it to make it personal for them.

　　The easiest way to make a bookmark is to buy a bookmark kit, choosing the most appropriate design for your friend. In any case, buying a kit for the first bookmark you make is probably a good idea, as it will contain all the necessary threads, fabric and instructions you need. You will be able to get some information from this as a sort of template for your future projects.