Yes, you can make a quilt as you go (QAYG) scrappy bookmark, and it’s one of the best small projects for using up fabric scraps. This method lets you piece and quilt in one step, creating a sturdy, flexible bookmark that shows off your fabric collection.
What Is Quilt as You Go?
Quilt as you go is a technique where you sew the quilt top, batting, and backing together in small sections, rather than assembling a full top and then quilting the whole thing. For a bookmark, this means you work with a small piece of batting and fabric strips, sewing them directly onto the batting. The result is a finished, quilted piece that needs only edge finishing. This approach is ideal for small projects because it eliminates the need for a large quilting frame or machine space, and it’s a great way to practice free-motion quilting or simple straight-line stitching.
Materials You’ll Need
To make a QAYG scrappy bookmark, gather the following supplies. Most are likely already in your sewing kit.
- Fabric scraps: A variety of cotton fabrics in different colors and patterns. Strips should be at least 1.5 inches wide and 7 inches long, but you can use odd shapes.
- Batting: A piece of cotton or polyester batting, cut to your desired bookmark size (e.g., 2.5 x 7 inches). Thin batting works best.
- Backing fabric: A single piece of fabric, slightly larger than the batting, to serve as the back of the bookmark.
- Binding or edge finish: You can use bias tape, a strip of fabric, or simply fold over the backing to the front.
- Sewing machine and thread: A basic straight stitch is all you need, though a walking foot helps with even feeding.
- Rotary cutter, ruler, and mat: For cutting strips and trimming edges.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s a simple method for a scrappy QAYG bookmark. Adjust the size to your preference, but keep proportions in mind.
- Prepare the batting: Cut a piece of batting to your final desired size, for example, 2.5 inches by 7 inches. This will be the core of your bookmark.
- Layer with backing: Place the backing fabric right side down on your work surface. Put the batting on top, centered. The backing should extend about 1/4 inch beyond the batting on all sides.
- Start piecing: Take your first fabric strip and place it right side up on the batting, aligning one raw edge with the top edge of the batting. Pin or hold in place.
- Sew the strip: Using a 1/4 inch seam allowance, sew along the raw edge of the strip, through all three layers (strip, batting, backing). This seam attaches the strip and quilts the piece simultaneously.
- Add the next strip: Place the next strip right side down on top of the first, aligning raw edges. Sew along the edge with a 1/4 inch seam. Flip the second strip over to cover the seam, press with your fingers or an iron.
- Continue: Repeat the process, adding strips across the width of the bookmark until the batting is covered. You can use strips of varying widths to create a scrappy look.
- Trim and finish: Once the batting is covered, trim the excess fabric from the sides. Then, finish the edges by folding the backing fabric over to the front and topstitching, or by attaching bias tape around the perimeter.
Choosing Fabrics and Colors
The beauty of a scrappy bookmark is the mix of fabrics. For a cohesive look, select scraps that share a common color palette, such as all warm tones or all cool tones. Alternatively, you can go completely random for a true scrappy feel. Consider the weight of the fabric—quilting cotton is ideal because it’s easy to sew and presses well. Avoid heavy fabrics like denim or upholstery, as they can make the bookmark too thick and difficult to turn pages. If you want a soft, flexible bookmark, use a low-loft batting (thin) and avoid bulky seams.
Common Problems and Solutions
Newcomers to QAYG often encounter a few issues. Here are solutions to the most frequent ones:
- Bunched fabric: If your fabric is bunching, you may be pulling or pushing too hard. Let the machine feed the fabric, and use a walking foot if you have one.
- Uneven edges: To keep edges straight, make sure each strip is aligned properly before sewing. Use a quarter-inch foot for consistent seam allowances.
- Bulky seams: When using many strips, seams can get thick. Press seams open or to one side to reduce bulk. Trim seam allowances to 1/8 inch if necessary.
- Wavy bookmark: This happens when the backing is pulled too tightly. Ensure the backing is smooth but not stretched when you layer it.
Alternatives to Quilt as You Go
If QAYG doesn’t appeal to you, there are other ways to make a fabric bookmark. You could simply sew a single piece of fabric with a layer of batting and quilt it with straight lines. Another option is to use fusible web to adhere fabric to a piece of Peltex or other stiff interfacing, then sew around the edges. For a no-sew version, you can use fabric glue and a piece of cardstock. However, QAYG offers a unique combination of flexibility and durability that is perfect for a bookmark that will be handled frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a regular sewing machine for QAYG? Yes, a regular sewing machine works fine. A walking foot is helpful but not essential for small projects like a bookmark.
What size should a bookmark be? A typical bookmark is about 2 inches wide and 6-7 inches long. You can adjust the size to fit larger or smaller books.
How do I make the bookmark stiff? If you want a stiffer bookmark, use a heavier interfacing instead of batting, or add a layer of Peltex. However, for most books, a flexible bookmark is more comfortable.
Can I wash a QAYG bookmark? Yes, you can wash it gently in cold water and lay it flat to dry. Pre-washing your fabrics can prevent color bleeding.
What is the best way to finish the edges? Bias tape is the easiest and gives a clean look. You can also fold the backing over the front and topstitch, or use a zigzag stitch around the edge.
Can I make a bookmark without batting? Yes, you can use a piece of felt or a layer of interfacing as the core, but you’ll lose the quilted texture.
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