How to Frame Cross Stitch
Finishing a cross stitch project well is as satisfying as the stitching itself. If you are still working on your first project, the how to cross stitch guide covers everything from materials to finishing. Once the stitching is done, these are the five most common framing methods, from the simplest hoop display to properly stretched and mounted work.
Preparing your cross stitch for framing
Before framing, wash the piece if it has any handling marks. Use cool water and a drop of mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly and dry flat. When slightly damp, press it face-down on a clean towel — pressing face-down protects the stitches and gives a slightly raised finish. Let it dry completely before framing.
Method 1: Stretched over foam board (most popular)
Cut a piece of acid-free foam board (or mount board) to the size of your visible design area plus about 0.5 inches on each side. Centre the cross stitch face-up on the board. Starting from the centre of each edge, fold the fabric over the board and secure it with pins pushed into the edge of the foam. Work outward from the centre on each side, pulling the fabric taut as you go. Once pinned all around, place the stretched piece in a frame. This method is reversible and keeps the fabric flat indefinitely.
Method 2: Lacing over board
Similar to the stretched method but uses thread lacing instead of pins. Cut the board to size. Centre the fabric over it, fold the edges to the back, and use a long thread to lace the fabric edges together — first across the width, then down the length. Pull each pass taut before moving on. Lacing is more secure than pins for pieces that will be handled often or shipped.
Method 3: Display in an embroidery hoop
The easiest method. Place the finished piece in a clean hoop — preferably a new one rather than the working hoop, which may have marking or wear. Trim the excess fabric to about 1 inch outside the hoop. Fold the raw edge toward the back of the inner hoop and secure with fabric glue or a running stitch. Works best for small, round, or roughly square designs.
Method 4: Adhesive mount board
Self-adhesive mount boards are available from craft suppliers. Peel the backing, position the cross stitch carefully (there is limited repositioning), and press the fabric onto the board. This is quick but permanent, so only use it if you are confident about the placement. Good for professional-looking results without hand-stitching.
Method 5: Professional framing
Worth considering for large or complex pieces, or anything you plan to keep long-term. A professional framer can stretch the piece correctly, use acid-free materials to prevent yellowing, and add UV-protective glass. The cost is significant but appropriate for heirloom work.
What size frame do you need?
Enter your fabric dimensions to find the right frame size. The hoop size calculator also works for frames — the same principle applies: the frame should be at least as large as your fabric.
Enter your fabric dimensions to get a hoop recommendation
Frequently asked questions
Stretch the fabric over a foam board or acid-free mount board and secure it with pins or lacing. Place in an open frame without glass. Cross stitch benefits from being viewed without glass — the texture of the stitches is visible and there is no glare.
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