How to frame or finish a cross stitch
Two good ways to finish a piece: keep it in the hoop, or mount it in a frame.
First, press it
Lay the finished piece face down on a thick, clean towel and press from the back with a medium iron. The towel lets the stitches sink in instead of being flattened.
If it needs washing, use cool water and a mild soap, roll it in a towel to take the water out, and press it while still slightly damp.
Finishing in a hoop
Centre the design in a wooden hoop and tighten it until the fabric is drum-tight. Trim the fabric to about an inch and a half outside the hoop.
Run a gathering stitch around the edge, pull it tight so the fabric folds in behind the hoop, and tie it off. A circle of felt stitched over the back hides the edges and keeps dust out.
Mounting in a picture frame
Cut acid-free mount board to the frame's opening. Lay the stitching over it, fold the edges to the back and lace them across with strong thread, first side to side and then top to bottom, until the fabric is taut and straight.
Avoid glue, which stains with time. If you use glass, add a mount or spacer so it does not press on the stitches.
