When framing your finished cross-stitch piece, you have a choice of several different frame materials. However, some framing material is more suitable for preserving your cross-stitch piece than others. The choice of mounting material also needs to be considered.

Mounting and framing materials should be acid free to keep your cross-stitch from turning yellow as it ages. You have a choice of museum board or acid free foam board to mount your finished cross-stitch piece. Inexpensive frames can be purchased at discount stores in various sizes with the choice of hardwood, soft wood, metal, or plastic frames. With wood, you will need to line the frame inset where you place the cross-stitch piece with Mylar tape to prevent the wood from leaking acid onto your cross-stitch fabric as it ages.

Metal frames do not have the acid problem but some of them have metal shavings you need to clean up before inserting your finished cross-stitch. Plastic frames are inexpensive but have a tendency to look cheap. If you are going to hang the framed piece in a dust prone area, you might consider putting it behind glass. If you decide to put it under glass, it is recommended that you matt the piece to give enough space between glass and cross-stitch that the thread does not touch the glass.

After all the work you have done to finish your cross-stitch, you will want to choose the proper frame to accent and enhance the finished product. It is recommended that you spray your cross-stitch piece with Scotchguard to prevent stains and possible damage.