Use a
double mount when framing designs which incorporate beads or charms so that
the glass doesn't touch them.
Use the
right needle size for the fabric you are stitching on. The needle
should pass through the holes in the fabric without enlarging them. It
makes sure the fabric isn't distorted when it comes to mounting.
| Tapestry Needle Size |
Aida |
Evenweave |
| 18 |
6-count |
- |
| 20 |
8-count |
- |
| 22 |
11-count |
22-count, 25-count and
27-count |
| 24 |
14-count |
28 -count |
| 16 |
16-count |
32-count (and 22-count
hardanger) |
| 28 |
18-count |
36-count and 55-count |
A complicated stitched
design will look better in a simple mount, whereas you'll probably
find that simpler designs can take a more elaborate mount.
If you have two small
pieces of cross stitch you want to display side-by-side. make a
double-aperture frame for them rather than separate ones.
Use three strands of
thread instead of two for stitching on an aida band. The weave is more
open on aida bands so three strands will give better coverage of the
fabric and result in a stronger coloured design.
Aida and Evenweave
bands tend to shrink in the first wash, so it's a good idea to give
them a quick wash before attaching them to items such as towels,
curtains and cushion covers.
When attaching a
stitched design to a dark-coloured towel, back with interfacing first
so that the colour of the towel doesn't show through the aida or
evenweave.
If you don't have a
sewing machine, use some of the lovely ready-to-stitch items you can
buy from needlework stockists instead. These are made with a handy
aida panel for a design and include baby clothes, pillow cases and
tablecloths.
To keep your stitching
in good condition for many years, hang the finished framed piece away
from bright sunlight, excessive moisture and radiators.
Sign your work for
posterity - some charts include initials as part of the design,
otherwise add them in tiny backstitch lettering in one corner. You
could also sign and date your work on the back of the frame.
Have your stitching
mounted behind non-reflective glass to help preserve the colour over
the years.
If you have an heirloom project you want to last, make sure that
your framer uses acid free mountboard and that the piece is mounted
using a lacing technique rather than masking tape.
