Once your needlepoint project is completed, it’s time to finish the job. Most needlepoint projects become distorted while working on it, so the first finishing step is to use a blocking method to get it back into shape. If you are joining the needlepoint design to something else or want to frame your needlepoint work, there are many tips and tricks to learn that apply to needlepoint. Below are the basic tools and steps required for professional finishing of your needlepoint projects. In the weeks ahead, we will be introducing several needlepoint finishing services in case you prefer outsource your needlepoint finishing. We invite you to join our email subscriber list so we may notify you as soon as these services are available.
Finishing Tools. Finishing your needlepoint project requires the following tools: small tape measure, hammer and tacks. Your needlepoint project will also require a board that is soft enough for the tacks to go through it.
Step 1: Blocking Your Needlepoint. Blocking your needlepoint project is the process that stretches the needlepoint canvas back into its original shape, erasing any distortion that may have occurred during stitching.
Step 2: Joining Needlepoint Pieces. Sewing sections of needlepoint together is a process called joining. Each piece needs to be blocked separately and then joined together with a needle and either buttonhole thread or matching yarn.
Step 3: Mounting Your Needlepoint. If you choose to frame your needlepoint project, you first need to mount it on a board to keep it taut and firmly in place. One method is to mount the needlepoint piece directly onto a board. Another method is to mount your work on a stretcher. This is the quickest and easiest way. A stretcher is a wooden frame over which your needlepoint is stretched and tacked down.
Step: 4 Framing Your Needlepoint. Framing your needlepoint will give it a permanent resting place, protect it from dust and dirt and show off your beautiful needlepoint project to it best advantage.
Step 5: Hanging Your Needlepoint. Framing is not your only option for needlepoint. It can also be hung as wall décor. After you have lined the back of the needlepoint, you can choose from several different methods to hang your needlepoint project.
