“Crafting comes before housework in the dictionary...as it should.” -Unknown
How to Frame a Cross Stitch Using Self-Stick Mounting Board
I am the world’s slowest cross stitcher. So, to get myself back into the cross stitching world, I chose a pattern I knew I would be able to complete quickly. I love the way this cross stitch pattern from MyEasyStitch turned out. It is such a simple design that has a bright pop of color.
To make this cute cross stitch look even better, I matted and framed it. A lot of people like to frame their work in the loop. I am not a fan of that look. It reminds me of all the unfinished projects that I already have started. Do not get me started on that. If you like it, that’s fine, but I am old-fashioned and like a good framed piece of art.
Find this Mickey Mouse Cross Stitch Pattern from MyEasyStitch on Etsy HERE.
Check out some other Disney Inspired Cross Stitch Patterns HERE.
There are several different ways you can mount and frame a completed cross stitch. This how to frame a cross stitch tutorial will teach you how to frame a cross stitch using self-stick mounting board, aka sticky board.
I have found that mounting a cross stitch using self-stick mounting board is the easiest way to frame a cross stitch. Some people do not recommend this method because they say it will damage the cross stitch. However, I have used this method for many years and have never encountered a problem.
Tips on How to Frame a Cross Stitch with Self-Stick Mounting Board
Clean the cross stitch before mounting. And let it dry completely.
Use a glass frame to keep dirt and fingerprints off the cloth.
Do not skip the ironing step. Remove all wrinkles before mounting.
Use a mat to keep the stitches from getting smashed against the glass.
A mat will also add visual appeal.
What is Self-Stick Mounting Board
Self-stick mounting board is also referred to as sticky board. It is a thick piece of cardboard that has adhesive on one side. It comes in several different sizes that are perfect for framing. If you need to cut the board to fit your project perfectly, it can be cut easily.
Many brands have been designed to be used in needlework. They are acid-free and often repositionable. These types of sticky boards will not damage your cross stitch.
Materials Needed to Frame a Cross Stitch Using Sticky Board
Completed Cross Stitch
Ruler
Marking Pencil
Double-sided Tape or Masking Tape
Mild Soap and Water
Windex
Paper Towel
Choosing the Correct Mat and Frame Size
When choosing a mat and frame pick something that is going to compliment your piece of art. Do not choose something that will overpower it. You will not want a rustic style frame for a Star Wars Cross Stitch. And believe it or not, shabby chic does not go with everything. I recommend you take the completed pattern with you to see how everything looks together.
When choosing both the mat and frame take the size and layout of the cross-stitch design into consideration. If you are matting a silhouette-type design like I am, you will want to leave a little bit of room between the finished design and the opening of the mat. If you are framing an edge-to-edge or poster-type cross stitch design, you will want the mat to meet up with the edges of the stitches. It may be necessary to cover a few rows, so none of the fabric is showing.
Generally, the width of the mat border should be at least 1.5 times bigger than the frame border. However, you can go as wide as you like. But remember, having a border that is too wide can overpower the artwork.
Prepare the Cross Stitch for Framing
When you work on your cross stitch the oil and dirt from your fingers will get onto the fabric. You may not be able to see it now. But over the years, it will discolor the fabric. Washing the fabric will remove the dirt and debris while getting rid of those difficult to remove creases.
To stop the discoloration from happening hand wash your cross stitch in lukewarm water with a mild soap. Floss colors can bleed, so check them by pressing a wet paper towel against them before washing. If they bleed, do not submerge the cross stitch completely in the water.
***If you are worried about color bleeding, check your floss before starting your project. ***
Once you have washed your cross stitch and it has completely dried, bring out the iron. Iron your project until all the wrinkles are removed. If the floss beads, do not use steam.
It is important you touch the fabric as little as possible. You do not want the oils from your fingers getting onto the cloth.
Matting and Framing a Cross Stitch Mounted on Sticky Board
Choose a frame that will be thick enough for the glass, mat, mounted cross stitch and backing board. Frames that have backing boards that slide into a slot are usually not deep enough. The best type of frame to purchase for a cross stitch is one that has metal tabs that bend down to secure the backing board.
Take apart the frame and clean the glass. You must clean glass before you frame your cross stitch. There are always dust and fingerprints on it. Even on the inside. Let the glass dry completely before assembly.
Place the front of the frame face down.
Insert the mat face down.
Place the mounted cross stitch face down.
Insert the back, with the back face up. Make sure the hangers in the correct position for hanging.
Secure the back. This can be difficult to do with your fingers since the cross stitch fabric is thick. You can use a flat head screwdriver to make it easier. Watch out you do not shove the screwdriver through the back of the frame.
How to Mount a Cross Stitch on the Sticky Board
Mounting a completed cross stitch pattern is easy. Here is how to frame a cross stitch using sticky board.
***It is important that you touch the fabric as little as possible. Especially the front. This helps to keep the oil from your hands from getting onto the fabric. This oil will yellow over time.***
1. Prepare the cross stitch for framing. See the above notes.
2. Measure your completed design and decide how you want it to fit in your frame. I centered my completed Mickey Mouse Cross Stitch Pattern. I measured the Mickey and made some very light marks on the back of the fabric, so I knew where to place the sticky board.
3. DO NOT PEEL OFF THE BACKING OF THE STICKY BOARD. Place the board on the back of the fabric and trace around it. Make sure the image is positioned exactly where you want it. I used a thick white line, so you could see what I was doing.
4. Remove the board.
5. Draw a second line, creating a 1-inch border.
6. Extend the lines of your first border to create small squares in the corners.
7. Cut out your cross stitch using the second line you created. Cut off the corner pieces.
8. Remove the backing off the sticky board and put it sticky side down on the back of the cross stitch.
9. Press the board down. Start from the middle and work your way out to the edges.
10. Apply the double sided adhesive tape on two (opposite) edges of the self-stick mounting board.
12. Apply the double sided adhesive tape to the other two edges. Allow the tape to overlap the fabric.
13. Fold the 2 sides of fabric over the board and press it onto the double sided adhesive tape.
14. Your cross stitch is now ready to be framed.
15. Clean the glass of your frame and let it dry completely.
16. Frame your completed cross stitch design.
Your Cross Stitch is Now Ready to Hang
Whether you completed the cross stitch for yourself, or as a gift, it is now ready to be put on display.
Now that you know how to frame a cross stitch, get your completed projects framed and displayed.