The Cross & Crown Scalloped Edge Bookmark

This was a purpose-made bookmark with a highly decorative punched and shaped edge. This kind of ‘blank’ was commonly available in the late 19th century. The ‘stitchable’ area is punched to 24 stitches to the inch.

The bookmark is backed with silk ribbon but could be mounted and framed. The stitches are worked in cross stitch using stranded cottons (floss) and it measures 2 x 5.5in (5 x 14). It will be supplied between stiff card and wrapped in tissue.

I find it fascinating that something stitched on paper has managed to survive so long. I hope it is because it was treasured and kept carefully pressed between the pages of a book. The stitcher would probably be amazed that they created a collectable.

Stitching paper is based on early Victorian punched paper, also referred to as Bristol Board and made in England as early as 1840. The Victorians used it to work bookmarks, needle cases, pincushions, glove and handkerchief boxes, notebook covers and greetings cards.

The paper proved versatile and could be stitched, folded, glued and cut to make pretty cross stitch projects and used to fill scrapbooks and treasure albums.

I have collected items stitched on early perforated paper for many years and these include samplers, bookmarks and needlecases.