-
Remove
glass from frame. Clean both sides with glass cleaner.
Place glass back into frame. Use canned air to remove
any lint that may remain on glass.
-
Cut
foam core slightly smaller (1/16") than frame.
Cut batting to exact size of foam core.
-
Needlework
should be clean and blocked. If needlework cannot be
washed or dry cleaned, use a lint roller lightly to
remove any "mystery" threads, fuzz, etc,
from front and back. (I like to use the lint roller
first on clean white muslin so it isn't quite so
tacky.)
-
If
needlework is smaller than foam core, add sufficient
fabric to all sides so it will wrap around to the back
with approximately 2-3" of excess fabric.
-
Press
all seams away from the needlework.
-
Place
matte over needlework to be sure that seams do not
show. If seams show, it may be necessary to add a
smaller matte to the inside or use a smaller frame.
-
Turn
all raw edges of fabric under 1/4" and stitch to
secure.
-
Place
batting on foam core. All threads or
"mystery" flecks must be removed as this may
show through your needlework.
-
Center
fabric on top of batting, smoothing out any wrinkles
or "bumps". Be sure that the needlework is
centered in the opening of the matte board. This may
require repositioning several times.
-
Once
the needlework is centered, carefully remove the matte
without moving the needlework.
-
Pin
the edges of the fabric to the foam core with appliqué/sequin
pins. This will temporary secure the work to the foam
core while you stitch the back.
-
Turn
the needlework over placing it on a clean white towel.
-
Evenly
pull the excess fabric to the back and pin - fold
corner fabric in at the corner angle and then fold
sides over to miter.
Thread a needle
with carpet/button thread and knot. Starting at the
center, stitch opposite sides of the excess fabric
together, spacing stitches approximately 1"
apart. (Your stitching will have a zigzag effect.)
Stitch to one edge, being sure to evenly pull fabric
taunt. Tie off thread.
-
Start
at center and repeat to the other edge.
-
Repeat the same
process for the other 2 sides. It is
important to pull these stitches evenly tight to
prevent the work from shifting or puckering.
-
Once
the piece is completely stitched on the back, remove
the pins from both back and front sides.
-
Place
matte and needlework in frame. Cover back of
needlework with acid-free matte board. Attach hanger.
