How to Stretch and Frame Needlepoint

Frame your needlepoint pieces to display them or give them as gifts.

Framing your beautiful needlepoint creations will allow you to display them, and keep them safe and protected for years to come. Custom framing can be very expensive, but with a few simple steps you can learn how to stretch and frame needlepoint canvases yourself.

Things You'll Need

• Scissors
• Foam core board
• Hot glue gun and glue
• Heavy tape
• Framing mat
• Frame

Instructions

1. Cut a piece of foam core board to match the size of your finished needlepoint piece.

2. Cut in from the points on the corners of your needlepoint piece toward the center. The cuts should be as deep as the extra margin you have on your piece.

3. Center the foam core board onto the back of your needlepoint piece. Pull tightly on the top, bottom and sides of your needlepoint piece to stretch them and wrap them behind the foam core board. Use a hot glue gun to glue them into position. Tape over the back of your piece to hold the edges in place extra securely and cover the parts that you glued.

4. Place a framing mat into the picture frame along with your needlepoint piece, then close the frame around it. If you use glass, clean the glass first. Many people choose not to use glass on needlepoint so the framed stitches can be more visible.

Tips & Warnings

• For needlepoint, an easy way to frame is to buy the type of frame that comes without backing; this type usually has metal clamps to hold the piece in the frame instead. It will be easier to adjust this type of frame to fit the thickness of your needlepoint piece.

References

• Needlepoint For Fun: How to Frame Needlepoint
• Shakespeare's Peddler: Stretching Needlework is Easier Than You Think