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Matting Colors

In general, lighter mats are a better choice than darker ones. Dark matting tends to make a project look smaller, although in some cases this may be the desired artistic effect. When double or triple matting, use a darker color for the inner mat to set off the piece.
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Pinning To Mounting Board

When pinning fabric to a mounting board for framing, use stainless steel pins. Stainless steel pins wonīt rust over time and damage the fabric.
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Selecting Projects Suitable For Framing

Before starting a piece, anticipate how it may eventually be finished. If you donīt have the budget for a custom made frame, select projects that will fit into common frame sizes (5X7, 8X10, etc.).
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Choosing Matting

When choosing a mat to frame your projects, look for acid free products. Acid will stain or damage needlework fabric over time.
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Framing With Glass

Do not let glass touch the needlework after it has been framed. A spacer placed under the glass will keep it away from the fabric. This is also helpful for projects with embellishments that protrude from the fabric such as French knots, ribbons, and beads.
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Ironing Projects

To get creases out of a project, place it face down on the ironing board, put a damp towel on top and iron lightly.
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Before You Give It Away...

Photograph your work before giving it away as a gift. Create your own stitching photo album of all your completed pieces.
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Natural Light

As natural light is best for creating needlework, it is also excellent for photographing it. Natural light will bring out the colors and texture of your work. If natural light is not possible a flash may help; if the needlework is behind glass it will cause a glare.
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Mounting Board

When mounting your finished project, choose a mounting surface that is non-acidic. Unsealed wood, masonite, upson board, corrugated craft cardboard, recycled boards, chipboard, news board, and sponge-covered board are all acidic and may discolor fabrics over time.
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Digital Cameras

If you want to post pictures of your needlework on a web site, digital cameras are a good choice. With digital cameras you can take repeated pictures until the desired effect is achieved.
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Scanning

If you have a flatbed scanner, you can experiment with scanning your needlework. Ensure that the glass is clean and dust-free before putting your hard work on it!
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Washing Your Project

Some floss dye may run when washed. Test floss for colorfastness before washing a project, or better yet, before you even use the floss.
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Mat Size

The size of the mat will depend on the size of the piece and the desired effect. In general, larger mats look better with large pieces - smaller mats may look sparse. However, a large mat may have an interesting effect when paired with a small piece.
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Non-glare Glass

Be wary of non-glare glass when framing your work. This type of glass is made with acid that can damage needlework over time.
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