At this time of year, many cross stitchers will be completing projects and considering buying frames for them. Perhaps you’ll want to give a stitched picture to someone who is important to you. Or maybe – this is a Christmas present to yourself – and why not!

You can buy many do-it-yourself frames these days, so the services of a professional framer are not always necessary.

There are several important things to consider when framing a cross stitched design. One important rule is to place a spacer between the glass and your stitching. This is to prevent the glass from pressing against the stitches, which can flatten them and affect the way that the light shines on your stitches. Also, if you have added embellishments, such as charms, buttons or beads, these may be squashed to one side, if glass is adding pressure to them. The spacers will allow a small gap to be retained between project and glass, and will also help to achieve a more three-dimensional look to the picture.

Now for the choice of frame itself…

Perhaps the most important consideration when choosing a frame is that the frame should be secondary to the picture. Someone who looks at your project should be looking at the wonderful cross stitched picture; attention should be drawn to your handiwork, not admiring the frame. Therefore, steer clear of frames that are over-elaborate. To use an extreme example, just think of those gilt, swirly frames that we see in palaces or country mansions. It is difficult to focus on the picture when there is such a grandiose surrounding.

Here are the two main considerations:

1. Consider the picture first and foremost. Is your cross stitched picture traditional, cute, humorous, religious…? What does your picture require as a background setting? A traditional picture would be complemented with an elegant wooden frame. Perhaps a fun cartoon would be best framed in a brightly coloured frame.

2. Consider the recipient. For example, if you are going to give this picture as a gift for you mother – to hang in her kitchen, think about what colour and style would be most appropriate both for the picture and the room itself. If you know where you think the picture will hang, bear in mind the colour scheme and style of the room itself.

It is helpful to think hard about the requirements of your frame before you rush off to buy one. Spontaneous decisions in the shop can result in disastrous purchases, as we all know. Good luck with your purchase, and…

Happy Stitching!

Iona