Most of the people like to take their work along to find a suitable frame. You can choose the best size and appropriate style for your work. The frame should be one that complements your work and not overpower it. Take time to select the right frame. Inspect the various materials, Also note that some wood and plastic frames can get destroyed over longer periods. You could even take a few useful tips from you local craft store on prevention of damage.
Using Glass Frames
If you wish to go in for a glass frame make sure that you choose a plain one and not the non-reflective ones. If you have children in your house or if you are considering hanging your art piece on the wall it is advisable for you to invest in a tough glass piece which is safe to use. These could cost you a little extra though. You should also check the depth of your frame so that the glass does not come in the way of stitching. Most of the people use mats or spacers to avoid the glass from touching the stitching.
Selection of Mats
Mats are a good option to keep your glass from touching your stitching. They also give a very professional and elegant look. You must ensure that the mats are acid free to prevent your work from getting damaged. Normally it is advised that the borders of the bottom mats need to be of the same width as the frame or little wider. The border width of the top mats should be smaller for you to view the bottom mat. It would be a good choice to have the color of your mat matching the main thread in your work or it should co-ordinate with the work and frame. The top mat should be neutral in color.
Attaching the Project to a Mounting Board
Select an acid free board which is slightly smaller than your frame. You can also add batting and the fabric should be tight when placing it. Now attach the fabric to the board by stitching it with the help of heavy threads or using a fabric adhesive.
Inserting the Project into the Frame
In case you are using glass frames and spacers place them in order before inserting the project. In the absence of spacers you can use mats by placing thin pieces along the edges so that the frames can hide them, and then place your project on top. Now you can use glazier points to secure your project in the frame. For the back cover you can use acid free paper
Attaching Wire or a Picture Hanger
If your frame is smaller you can use picture hangers by nailing them in the center of the top side of the frame. If your frame is bigger then use wire. Also add a little extra wire so that it does not become too tight and also an extra hook.
Quite often, when learning a new hobby, you wish you had someone to ask questions. You may have misunderstood the directions, made a mistake and don't know how to fix it, or simply want to seek the advice of someone who has been involved in the craft for a longer time than you. This is normal, especially if no one you know enjoys the craft. Cross stitch forums are available online to give you the support and help that you need.
Many people learn a new craft by being shown how either in person or on a video or television show. Cross stitch is not difficult to learn, so often people just decide to teach themselves. But, no matter how easy something is to learn, it is still normal to have some questions. A cross stitch forum can be the perfect place for you to find encouragement or the answer to a question.
The best way to find a cross stitch forum is by doing a search. Open Yahoo, Google, MSN, AOL, or another search engine and search the words, "cross stitch forums". There should be a return of hundreds, if not thousands, of hits. Start opening the pages to see if you can find a forum that appeals to you.
After registering you are free to join in. Previous responses may help answer your own queries but if not, try to keep to one question per post so that others can assist you easily. Give advice of your own, if you can; it will help you become a useful and respected member of the community. Don't forget to read and follow the rules of the forum.
Believe it or not, even when communicating with fellow cross stitch enthusiasts, you should always give careful thought to how much personal information you share on the web. True friendships are definitely possible, because you have your love of cross stitch as a common ground. Make sure you read the forum's rules for posting before you join also. Forum etiquette is also important to know. Don't let all this sound intimidating, though. It is really as simple as finding a spot that feels comfortable, filling out a simple registration form and jumping into the ongoing conversations. Don't be afraid to introduce yourself and ask questions if you have any.
Most cross stitch forums have different sections and whether you just want to chat, or sell a completed project, try to post in the right area to avoid any problems.
Forums and message boards are great places to learn. When first learning to stitch, browsing the cross stitch forums is a great idea. You can learn a great deal from those who have been 'stitching' for years. Not only will you be encouraged by fellow stitchers who share your interests, but you'll also be able to make new friends, and in the coming years that could well be much more valuable to you than anything you learn about cross stitch.
John Wigham has sinced written about articles on various topics from Arts, Crafts and Arts. John Wigham is a professional author and co-owner of Patterns Patch . An online cross stitch community whose members get free: patterns, articles. John Wigham's top article generates over 135000 views. to your Favourites.