10 Tips from a Needlework Framer

I have been helping out with the framing and I have come up with a list of 10 things your needlework framer wants you to know and practice!  Here they are in no particular order:

1. Trim your tails close!  If they extend beyond your stitched area, they WILL show!  And, do not carry your thread across unstitched areas on the back of your fabric.

2. Wash your hands before you start stitching.

3. Do not always fold your piece the same way when you put it away.  The fold lines get soiled and are very hard to remove.

4. Fold your fabric with the right sides inside.

5. While stitching, fold or roll your fabric so you are holding the back side.  This also applies to rolling your fabric on a scroll frame.

6. Keep newspapers away from your stitching.

7. Please do not use masking tape on the edges of your projects.  Overcast the edges with your sewing machine or serger or use a fray-stopping liquid.

8. Do not use lead pencils to mark your fabric.

9. Be sure to allow enough fabric around the edges to finish your project the way you want.

10. If you have used colorfast floss and fabric, wash your project when finished.  Use mild dishwashing liquid, rinse well and roll in a towel.  Place face down on a terry towel and iron on the back.

I hope these tips will help you.  I know your framer will thank you if you follow them!