Loose Thread Stitchers

Needle and ThREAD: Stitching for Literacy Bookmark Challenge

October 1, 2007 marked the opening of the first Needle and Thread: Stitching for LiteracyBookmark Challenge . Participating independent needlework shops across the country hosted special events and collected hand-stitched bookmarks. Bookmarks were donated to local libraries and schools during Children’s Book Week, Nov. 12-18, to encourage and reward children for reading accomplishments.

2009 Bookmark Challenge Results

Thanks to the generosity and enthusiasm of stitchers across the country and worldwide, we collected and donated to libraries, schools, and literacy programs ~ 1,023 hand-stitched bookmarks.

Techniques included cross stitch, Hardanger, paper embroidery, blackwork, canvas work, needlepoint, pulled and drawn thread, bobbin lace, tatting, crochet, knitting, machine embroidery, peyote beading, Bargello, Schwalm, and crewel, to name a few.

To download the free SYHO Bookmark chart click here . For each bookmark stitched, you will be entered to win over $500 in stash. How cool is that?

The 2010 Bookmark Challenge will be held March 18 – May 6. Many participants host events and collect bookmarks year-round, so call or stop in to join the fun. If you don’t have a participating shop or guild nearby, here are some other ways that you can participate.

Independent designers donate to literacy projects at least 10% of profits from specially-designed bookmark patterns bearing a Needle and Thread: Stitching for Literacy logo. When you purchase these patterns, you, too, are supporting literacy.

Funk and Weber Designs

My Mark Designs