The Art and Craft of Needlework Framing

At Frame Minnesota, we understand the sentimental and artistic value of needlework. Our approach combines traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques to ensure your needlework is beautifully framed and preserved for years. Proper framing enhances the visual appeal of your work and provides essential protection against environmental factors that can cause deterioration over time.

Multiple ways exist to create framing solutions that look good and preserve the artwork. Many needleworker artists are hesitant to cover their work with glass because they don’t like covering up the fine details. Our “Museum” glass is the perfect solution because we can add glass protection with such awesome clarity that you can still see all the beautiful stitching.

Crewel Embroidery

With its rich textures and vibrant colors, Crewel embroidery deserves a frame that complements its unique character. Because crewel uses thicker twisted yarn, we need to use framing techniques to enhance the depth and dimension of crewel pieces, ensuring that the texture and hues stand out. The right frame can transform a piece of crewel embroidery into a stunning focal point in any room.

Lacework and Cutwork: Candlewicking, Tatting, Hardanger

Delicate lacework and cutwork, including candlewicking, tatting, and Hardanger, require special attention. We use techniques that prevent stretching and distortion, ensuring your intricate patterns remain intact. Our custom mounting solutions protect these fragile pieces while allowing their delicate beauty to shine through. Again, no glue, staples, or adhesives are used to attach your work. Usually, a simple needle and thread is the best solution.

Hmong Story Cloths and Other Applique

We are your go-to for proper framing if you make or collect small quilts, mola applique works from South America, or Hmong story cloths. Many appliques tell stories through the fabric. Our framing solutions honor these narratives, providing a stunning display that preserves each piece’s cultural and artistic significance. By using museum-quality materials and techniques, we ensure that these works of art are preserved for future generations to appreciate.

Tapestries and Rugs: Hooked and Woven

Whether it’s a hooked rug or a woven tapestry, we have the expertise to frame these larger needlework pieces. Our custom solutions accommodate various sizes and shapes, ensuring a perfect fit. We understand the unique challenges posed by these items and use specialized techniques to ensure they are securely mounted and beautifully displayed.

Silk Flags and Painted Fabrics: Batik and Papyrus

Silk flags, batik, and papyrus require careful handling and framing to protect their delicate surfaces. We offer specialized glass options and mounting techniques to preserve their vibrant colors and intricate details. Using the highest quality materials ensures that these delicate pieces are protected from light, dust, and moisture.

Garments and Family Heirlooms

Whether you have a family baptismal gown, a wedding veil, or baby clothing, many techniques we use to frame other textiles carry over into the methods we use to preserve these garments. Often, a simple needle and thread plus a lot of experience working with these types of garments are all we need. We sometimes add tiny archival tables shot with a special tool to aid positioning. We are experts at listening and finding great colors and styles in your home or office.

Choosing the Right Frame

The frame is an essential part of the overall presentation. We offer a wide range of frames, from classic to contemporary, to suit every style and preference. Whether you prefer the elegance of a wooden frame, sleek look of metal or something more ornate, we have over 2000 frame options that will enhance the beauty of your needlework.

Importance of Using Acid-Free and Archival-Quality Materials

Preservation is key. We use acid-free and archival-quality materials to protect your needlework from deterioration over time. These materials prevent the acids and other harmful substances found in standard framing materials from causing damage to your needlework.

Museum Quality Options for Glass

We recommend, at minimum, a glass with a UV coating called Conservation Clear. One popular upgrade is Museum glass, which has a UV and special coating that eliminates reflection. Manufactured in Faribault, MN, this glass is so clear that many customers think there is no glass on the project.

We also carry acrylic Conservation and Museum versions of these products. We often use acrylic on large pieces for safety and ease of hanging. We also use acrylic on very valuable or sentimental pieces, and it is the right way to go if the work will be shipped or installed in a public place where liability is a concern.

These choices help protect your needlework from harmful light exposure by eliminating 98% of the harmful UV rays from reaching the art.

Our preparation process involves careful inspection of your project. If possible, most needlework and textiles benefit from cleaning before framing. Many cross stitch projects can be washed by hand in our shop or at home. We have a time-tested recipe for this but we never clean without your permission. Old, delicate and damaged items as well as wool need to be cleaned by someone with the proper training. We are happy to advise and consult on that as part of the framing process.

Design & Aesthetic Considerations

Choosing the right frame style for your needlework is crucial. We help you select frames that complement and enhance your needlework designs. Our experienced team can guide you through the options, ensuring that your chosen frame brings out the best in your work. It is often helpful to bring photos of your home or office. Color swatches, floor samples, and even a pillow from your couch are always welcome!

Color Coordination

Mats, Frames, and Needlework Colors

Color coordination is an art. We offer a variety of mats and frames to match and highlight the colors in your needlework. By carefully selecting the mats and frames’ colors, we can enhance the overall appearance of your piece and create a harmonious look.

Decorative Elements

Fillets, Decorative Mats, and Spacers

Fillets, decorative mats, and spacers can add a touch of elegance to your framed piece and enhance its overall look. Fillets add a layer of detail and depth, while decorative mats and spacers create a sense of dimension and sophistication. We will show you samples and ideas and help you every step of the way.