Needlepoint Frames: Tips and Instructions

First, Get Set Up

These frames work best for 4.0" (diameter) round canvas. Of course, the exact size of your canvas's design may vary. Best practice is to add a stitch or two around the edge if yours is on the small side, particularly in the top right and bottom left. (These are the areas most likely to "shrink" from stitching.)

What's included with your frame:

• Wood Frame
• 2 Pre-cut Foam Board Circles
• Mounting Hardware
• “Made by” sticker
• Detailed instructions

What else you'll need:

• Scissors
• Pins
• Needle and Thread
• Flat screwdriver
• Glue

STEPS:

1. Block your canvas! Flip the frame face down and hold it to the stitched canvas to test size. You may want to add stitches around the edge so that blank canvas doesn’t peek through.
2. Draw a circle adding 1" from the edge of your stitches. Trim the canvas along the circle. Clip the unstitched canvas into 1" sections around the circle.
3. Select the smaller foam core circle. (Marked with two blue lines.) Use straight pins along the foam edge to hold the canvas in place. Center and stretch the canvas as you pin.
4. Use perle cotton or other strong thread to lace across the back of the circle, connecting canvas flaps on opposite sides and rotating around the circle. Once complete, remove the pins.
5. Put the laced canvas round into the frame and straighten and center it from the front. Use a flat screwdriver to press in the three framing points (included hardware) along the inner edge to secure it.
6. Press the larger foam core circle (marked with one pink line) into the back to cover the lacing. Optional: a dab of glue between the two layers will help hold it. Sign and date your work with the included "Made By" sticker.

That looks great!  Now that you've finished a project... permission to go start three more!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the frame have glass to protect my stitches?

A: Nope! Too often glass ends up smushing (very technical term!) stitches unless you build in a spacer layer. That's too complicated for this self-finishing product. BUT, what I always recommend (for embroidery and cross stitch as well) is having a can of compressed air around so you can give your stitches a good de-dusting occasionally.  (Plus, it's satisfying.)

Q: Can I add a layer of batting? Or does the canvas have to be flat?

A: This is entirely up to your personal preferences! Just like you'd do when making a cookie for an ornament, you can add a circle (a bit smaller than the foamcore board) of batting to give a slightly mounded look in the frame.

Q: Are these frames available at my LNS?

A: They can be! Send me your LNS's contact info or give them mine and I'd be happy to set up a wholesale account. 

If you have additional questions, don't hesitate to send me an email!  kate@modernhoopla.co