Expert: Angela - 11/24/2002

Question
Hello
I would like to frame my own work. But how do I go about it? Do I use padding or not? Acid free mountboard or not? Glass or no Glass?
Are there instructions anywhere on the Internet I could read?
I would really appreciate help.
Thank you
Kind regards
Silvia

Answer
Hello, Silvia. :)

You would need to use acid free mounting board to mount your project on.  Here are the steps to do so:

1.  Place your project right-side down onto a flat surface, and place the mounting board ontop of it, making sure that it's as centered over the stitching as possible.

2.  Next, cut all 4 corners of the fabric from the very tip of and snip about 1/4" of an inch inwards.  This will help to keep the project centered while you're mounting it.

3.  Fold the edges of the fabric overtop the mounting board and secure them in place with either masking tape (more preferable) or craft glue (to glue them, use a small amount of glue under the flaps to secure them to the mounting board).

4.  Next, place the mounted project into the frame and place the back that came with the frame overtop of the mounted project.

5.  Secure the little tabs of the frame overtop of the frame backing.  This will hold everything into place.

6.  The final step... Place the whole thing in a favorite room where there's a lot of traffic and everyone can see what you've done. :)

With regards to the glass, that would depend upon where you live.  I have glass overtop of a stitched piece as I live on a dusty road.  I have seen projects that don't have glass overtop of them, as well.  This would be entirely up to you.  If there's a lot of moisture or dampness in your area, then I would recommend NOT putting glass overtop of your stitched piece as this may cause the stitching and/or the fabric to become moldy.

I hope this has helped you. :)  If you have any further questions, please let me know, and I'll try my best to help you further. :)

Happy Stitching and Happy Thanksgiving! :)

Sincerely,
Angela