How to Frame Your Cross Stitch: Step-by-Step Tips

Framing is the finishing touch that turns a stitched piece into a work of art. It protects the fabric and threads from dust, dirt and damage, and gives your work the professional look it deserves. Here's everything you need and a step-by-step guide to framing at home.

What Materials Do You Need for Framing?

• A suitable frame: choose one that complements your design and fits its dimensions.
• Mounting board: foam board or acid-free card gives your stitching a firm, flat backing.
• Mat board (optional): adds an elegant border and keeps glass from pressing on your stitches.
• Glass or acrylic: protects against dust. Acrylic is lighter and safer for large pieces.
• Backing board: provides support and holds everything in place.
• Pins, lacing thread or acid-free tape: to secure the fabric to the mounting board.
• Frame clips or points: to hold the frame together.
• Hanging hardware: so you can display your work on the wall.

Step-by-Step Guide to Framing Your Cross Stitch

Step 1: Prepare Your Cross Stitch

Make sure your work is clean and free from stains and creases. If it needs freshening up, wash it gently and press it face down on a fluffy towel, using a low heat setting so your stitches stay raised. Our guide on how to care for your finished cross stitch explains how. If you used a grid, remove it first (see gridding your fabric).

Step 2: Cut the Mounting Board and Mat Board

Measure and cut the mounting board to fit the inside of your frame. The fabric needs to be larger than the board so it can wrap around the edges. That's why we recommend leaving at least 2–3 inches of spare fabric around your design. If you're using a mat, cut its opening to frame the design nicely.

Step 3: Attach the Cross Stitch to the Mounting Board

Centre your stitching on the board, making sure the rows of stitches run straight. Fold the excess fabric to the back and secure it with pins pushed into the board's edges, acid-free tape or lacing. Lacing means stitching across the back from side to side, then top to bottom. Keep the fabric smooth and taut, but don't stretch it out of shape. Avoid ordinary glue or sticky tape on the front of the fabric, as they can discolour it over time.

Step 4: Add the Mat Board (Optional)

Place the mat over your mounted stitching so the opening frames the design. A mat also creates a gap between the glass and your stitches, which protects their texture.

Step 5: Clean and Place the Glass or Acrylic

Clean the glass or acrylic thoroughly so there are no smudges or fingerprints, then place it in the frame.

Step 6: Insert Your Mounted Stitching

Place the mat (if using) and the mounted cross stitch into the frame behind the glass, checking that everything is straight and centred.

Step 7: Attach the Backing Board

Add the backing board and secure it with frame clips or points. This keeps everything firmly in place.

Step 8: Add Hanging Hardware

Attach the hanging hardware to the back of the frame following the manufacturer's instructions. Then hang your masterpiece and admire it!

Watch How It's Done

Framing Tips

• Many stitchers prefer framing without glass so the stitch texture can be fully appreciated. Glass protects better from dust, though.
• Hang framed pieces away from direct sunlight to stop threads fading.
• Large or valuable pieces can be taken to a professional framer, who can use conservation-grade materials.
• Prefer something less formal? See 10 creative ways to display your finished cross stitch, from hoops to cushions.

Conclusion

Framing preserves and protects your work and shows it off beautifully. With the right materials and a little care, you can create a professional finish at home. Framed pieces make wonderful gifts too. See why cross stitch makes a great gift. They also sell well: read how to sell finished cross stitch.

Looking for a masterpiece worthy of your wall? Start with our all-time bestsellers.