Finishing Tips
Read these 14 Finishing Tips tips to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. Each tip is approved by our Editors and created by expert writers so great we call them Gurus. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Cross Stitching tips and hundreds of other topics.
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.
Pinning To Mounting Board
When pinning fabric to a mounting board for framing, use stainless steel pins. Stainless steel pins won't rust over time and damage the fabric.
Selecting Projects Suitable For Framing
Before starting a piece, anticipate how it may eventually be finished. If you don't have the budget for a custom made frame, select projects that will fit into common frame sizes (5X7, 8X10, etc.).
Choosing Matting
When choosing a mat to frame your projects, look for acid free products. Acid will stain or damage needlework fabric over time.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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