How to Frame Your Cross Stitch
You've spent countless hours creating a beautiful cross stitch piece. Now it's time to display it properly. This comprehensive guide covers everything from preparation to professional framing and alternative display options.
Why Framing Matters for Finished Pieces
Proper framing does more than just make your cross stitch look beautiful. It serves several important purposes:
- Protection: Shields your work from dust, moisture, insects, and physical damage
- Preservation: UV-protective glass prevents fading from sunlight exposure
- Presentation: Elevates your handmade piece to artwork status
- Tension: Keeps fabric taut and prevents warping over time
- Longevity: Properly framed pieces can last generations
Did You Know?
A well-framed cross stitch piece can maintain its vibrant colors for 50+ years when protected from direct sunlight and humidity.
Preparing Your Cross Stitch for Framing
Before framing, your finished piece needs proper preparation. Never skip these steps, as they ensure your work looks its best for years to come.
Washing Your Cross Stitch
Fill a Basin
Use lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild dish soap or textile-safe detergent. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals.
Submerge Gently
Place your piece in the water and let it soak for 10-15 minutes. This loosens oils from handling and any hoop marks.
Swish Carefully
Gently agitate the water. Never rub, wring, or scrub the fabric as this can distort stitches.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse in cool, clean water until all soap residue is removed. Multiple rinses may be needed.
Remove Excess Water
Lay flat on a clean white towel, roll up gently, and press to absorb water. Never wring.
Important Warning
Always test thread colorfastness before washing, especially with hand-dyed or variegated threads. Wet a cotton swab and dab a hidden area. If color transfers, skip washing or seek professional textile cleaning.
Pressing Your Cross Stitch
Prepare Your Surface
Place a thick, fluffy towel on your ironing board. This cushions the stitches and prevents flattening.
Position Face Down
Lay your cross stitch face down on the towel while still slightly damp. The stitches should sink into the towel's pile.
Cover with Press Cloth
Place a thin cotton cloth or pillowcase over the back of your work to protect it from direct heat.
Iron on Medium Heat
Press gently using a medium heat setting. Keep the iron moving and avoid pressing directly on stitches.
Allow to Dry Completely
Let your piece dry flat for 24 hours before framing. Any trapped moisture can cause mold or mildew.
DIY vs Professional Framing
Both options have their place depending on your piece, budget, and skill level. Here's how they compare:
DIY Framing
Best for: Small to medium pieces, budget-conscious stitchers, those who enjoy crafting
Pros
- Cost-effective
- Immediate results
- Full creative control
- Easy to adjust later
Cons
- Learning curve
- May lack polish
- Limited materials
- Time investment
Professional Framing
Best for: Heirloom pieces, complex designs, gifts, pieces with sentimental value
Pros
- Expert quality
- Archival materials
- Custom options
- Guaranteed results
Cons
- Higher cost ($75-300+)
- Wait time (1-3 weeks)
- Less flexibility
- Must find good framer
DIY Framing: The Lacing Method
The lacing method is the gold standard for mounting cross stitch. It's archival, reversible, and keeps your piece perfectly taut. This method is preferred by professional framers.
Supplies Needed
- Foam core or acid-free mounting board
- Strong thread (buttonhole or crochet cotton)
- Large-eye needle
- Straight pins
- Frame with backing
- Scissors
- Ruler
- Optional: Mat board
Cut Your Mounting Board
Cut foam core or acid-free board to match your frame's interior dimensions. Use a sharp craft knife for clean edges.
Center Your Design
Place your cross stitch face up on the board. Count grid squares from each edge to ensure perfect centering. Leave at least 2-3 inches of fabric on all sides.
Pin to Secure
Insert pins along the edges, pushing into the foam core. Start at the center of each side, then work outward. Keep fabric grain straight and tension even.
Fold Excess Fabric
Flip the board over. Fold the top and bottom fabric edges to the back, keeping them taut but not stretched. Pin temporarily.
Lace Horizontally
Thread your needle with a long piece of strong thread (2-3x the board width). Starting from one side, make long stitches back and forth between the top and bottom fabric edges, like lacing a corset. Space stitches about 1 inch apart.
Tighten and Secure
Once fully laced, go back and tighten each stitch evenly. Tie off securely. The fabric should be drum-tight on the front.
Repeat Vertically
Fold the side edges in (mitering corners neatly) and lace in the same manner from side to side. Tighten and secure.
Insert in Frame
Remove pins. Place your mounted piece in the frame, add glass if desired, and secure the backing. Your cross stitch is ready to display!
Pro Tip
Use a curved upholstery needle for easier lacing on large pieces. The curve helps you catch the fabric without constantly flipping the board.
DIY Framing: The Adhesive Method
While not reversible like lacing, adhesive mounting is faster and easier. Use only acid-free adhesives to prevent fabric damage over time.
Caution
The adhesive method is permanent. Only use this for pieces you won't need to remount or adjust. Never use regular glue, tape, or spray adhesive, as these can damage fabric and cause yellowing.
Prepare Materials
You'll need acid-free adhesive board (self-stick mounting board) or acid-free double-sided tape. Cut to frame size.
Position Carefully
Center your design on the board before removing any adhesive backing. Use pins as guides for alignment.
Adhere Gradually
If using self-stick board, peel back a small section at a time and smooth fabric down, working from center outward.
Smooth Completely
Use a clean, soft cloth or brayer to remove air bubbles and ensure full contact. Work gently to avoid distorting stitches.
Trim Excess
Cut away excess fabric close to board edges, or fold to the back and tape with acid-free tape for a cleaner finish.
Choosing the Right Frame
The frame you choose significantly impacts how your cross stitch is perceived. Consider these factors:
Frame Size
Your frame should be proportional to your design. As a general rule:
- Small designs (under 5"x7"): 1-2" mat and narrow frame profile
- Medium designs (5"x7" to 11"x14"): 2-3" mat and medium frame profile
- Large designs (over 11"x14"): 3-4" mat and wider frame profile
Frame Style
| Style | Best For | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Wood | Traditional samplers, florals, heritage pieces | Timeless, warm, available in many finishes |
| Modern Metal | Contemporary designs, geometric patterns | Sleek, minimal, doesn't compete with art |
| Ornate/Gilded | Formal pieces, reproductions, Victorian designs | Elegant, statement-making, period-appropriate |
| Rustic/Barnwood | Country scenes, primitives, folk art | Casual, textured, adds character |
| Floater Frame | Pieces with interesting edges, no mat desired | Shows full fabric, modern aesthetic |
Frame Color
Choose colors that complement rather than match your piece:
- Natural wood works with almost everything
- Black or dark frames add drama and make colors pop
- White frames feel fresh and modern, great for light designs
- Gold or silver adds elegance to traditional pieces
- Pick up a secondary color from your design for a coordinated look
Mat Board Options
A mat (also called mount or passe-partout) provides visual breathing room and keeps your fabric away from the glass.
When to Use a Mat
- When using glass (required for airflow and to prevent condensation)
- To add visual impact to smaller pieces
- To fit a standard frame size with a non-standard design
- For a polished, professional appearance
Mat Options
Single Mat
- One layer of mat board
- Clean, simple look
- Most common choice
- Width: 2-3" typical
Double Mat
- Two coordinating colors
- Inner mat shows as thin line
- Adds depth and interest
- Great for pulling out accent colors
Fabric-Covered Mat
- Mat wrapped in linen or silk
- Adds texture
- Coordinates beautifully with needlework
- Premium option
Always Use Acid-Free
Regular mat board contains acids that will eventually discolor your fabric and threads. Always specify acid-free or archival mat board. The small extra cost is worth protecting your work.
Glass vs No Glass
Whether to use glass is one of the most debated topics in cross stitch framing. Here's what to consider:
With Glass
Pros
- Dust protection
- UV protection (with coated glass)
- Prevents touching
- Easier to clean
Cons
- Glare issues
- Added weight
- Hides texture
- Condensation risk
Without Glass
Pros
- Shows full texture
- No glare
- Lighter weight
- Lower cost
Cons
- Dust accumulation
- No UV protection
- Vulnerable to damage
- Needs more maintenance
Glass Types
| Type | Benefits | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Glass | Basic protection, clear view | $ |
| Non-Glare Glass | Reduces reflections, slightly diffused | $$ |
| UV-Protective Glass | Blocks 97%+ UV rays, prevents fading | $$$ |
| Museum Glass | UV protection + anti-reflective, virtually invisible | $$$$ |
| Acrylic/Plexiglass | Lightweight, shatter-resistant, good for large pieces | $$ |
Our Recommendation
For pieces displayed in direct or indirect sunlight, always use UV-protective glass. For pieces in low-light areas or with heavy texture you want to showcase, consider going glass-free.
Professional Framing Tips
When taking your piece to a professional framer, follow these tips for the best results:
Finding a Good Framer
- Look for framers with needlework experience (ask to see examples)
- Check if they're certified through the Professional Picture Framers Association (PPFA)
- Ask about their mounting method (lacing is preferred)
- Read reviews from other needlework enthusiasts
Questions to Ask
- "How will you mount my piece?" (lacing is ideal)
- "Do you use acid-free materials throughout?"
- "What glass options do you offer?"
- "Can the framing be reversed if needed?"
- "How do you handle delicate textiles?"
What to Expect
- Cost: $75-$300+ depending on size and materials
- Timeline: 1-3 weeks typically
- Consultation: A good framer will discuss options with you
- Deposit: Many require 50% deposit
Red Flags
Avoid framers who suggest gluing your piece, using regular cardboard backing, or aren't familiar with handling needlework. These shortcuts can permanently damage your work.
Alternative Display Options
Not every piece needs traditional framing. These alternatives offer creative ways to showcase your work:
Embroidery Hoops
Display your piece in the same hoop you stitched it in, or upgrade to a decorative hoop.
- Trim excess fabric and glue or stitch to secure the back
- Add felt backing for a polished finish
- Create gallery walls with multiple hoops
- Best for: Small pieces, casual displays, quick finishes
Scroll Frames & Stands
Wooden scroll rods or decorative stands display pieces without glass.
- Great for bell pulls, samplers, and Asian-inspired designs
- Easy to roll up for storage
- Available in various wood finishes
Pillows & Cushions
Turn your cross stitch into functional decor.
- Add backing fabric and stuffing
- Insert a zipper for removable washing
- Consider knife-edge, boxed, or flanged pillow styles
- Best for: Designs meant to be touched, gifts
Other Creative Options
- Clipboard display: Clip smaller pieces to decorative clipboards
- Shadow boxes: Great for 3D elements or collections
- Hangers: Fabric or wooden hangers for banner-style display
- Ornaments: Finish small pieces as hanging decorations
- Jewelry: Mount tiny pieces in pendant settings
Preservation Tips
Protect your framed piece for generations with these preservation practices:
Display Location
- Avoid direct sunlight: Even UV glass can't block 100% of harmful rays
- Control humidity: 40-50% relative humidity is ideal
- Skip the kitchen and bathroom: Steam and cooking oils damage fabric
- Away from heat sources: Radiators and fireplaces cause drying and fading
Regular Maintenance
- Dust frames gently with a soft, dry cloth
- Clean glass with standard glass cleaner, sprayed on cloth (not glass)
- Check annually for insect activity or moisture damage
- Rotate pieces if displayed in bright areas
Storage
If you need to store framed pieces:
- Wrap in acid-free tissue paper
- Store upright, not stacked flat
- Keep in climate-controlled areas
- Check periodically for pest activity
Frequently Asked Questions
While not strictly required, washing is highly recommended. It removes oils from your hands, any hoop marks, and refreshes the fabric. Skip washing only if your threads aren't colorfast or if using specialty materials that can't get wet.
Leave at least 3-4 inches of unstitched fabric on all sides for framing. This gives enough material for mounting and allows flexibility if you want to add a larger mat later.
Yes, but if using glass, you must use spacers to keep fabric away from the glass surface. Direct contact can cause condensation damage. Without glass, no spacers are needed, but the piece is more exposed to dust.
Steam is your friend. Hold a steam iron a few inches above the back of your piece, or use a garment steamer. For stubborn wrinkles, dampen the fabric slightly and iron face-down on a fluffy towel using a pressing cloth.
If behind glass, simply clean the glass with standard cleaner. If unglazed, use a soft brush attachment on a vacuum at low suction, holding it slightly away from the surface. For deeper cleaning, you'll need to remove and rewash the piece.
For heirloom pieces, complex designs, or gifts, professional framing is often worth the investment. Professionals have access to archival materials and techniques that ensure longevity. For simpler pieces or if you enjoy crafting, DIY framing can produce beautiful results.
Yes! If it was laced, carefully cut the lacing threads and the piece will come free. If glued, you may be able to gently peel it away, but there's risk of damage. Take glued pieces to a textile conservator for safe removal.
Measure your stitched design area, then add mat width on all sides (typically 2-3 inches). A 5"x7" design with 2.5" mat becomes 10"x12" total. Buy a frame that fits this total size, or have a custom frame made.
Ready to Frame Your Cross Stitch?
Now that you know how to properly frame your finished piece, browse our collection of cross stitch patterns to start your next project. Each piece you complete is a work of art worthy of beautiful display!