How to stretch a cross stitch for matting

We're often asked by DIYers how to stretch a cross stitch before assembling into a mat and frame kit.  Here is our photo tutorial detailing our process.  If it gets too tedious or difficult for you, please know that we will be happy to stretch your piece for you if you ship it to our shop.

 When you purchase a mat set for a Shepherd's Bush cross stitch design it will come with the mat(s) and a piece of white, acid-free foam board the same size as the mat set.

The first step in the stretching process is to determine how big of an opening to cut into your foam board.  To get started, measure the mat margin on the mat set – this one measures 2 7/8”.  The mat needs to cover the fabric as well as the foam board.

 

 

We know that the mat is 2 7/8", so our foam board frame needs to have an opening that will hide underneath that 2 7/8" exposure.  We will measure in 2” from each edge of the foam board and mark the board  with pencil– extending and overlapping the lines at the corners by about 1/4”.  To check that you've done this step correctly, place the mat over the foam board and confirm that your pencil lines are hidden by the mat.

Using a straight edge and a razor knife, cut the marked area from the middle of the foam core leaving the window intact. Cut just a little beyond the corner (follow your overlapped pencil marks) to free the foam center.

Pop the center piece out and visually center your stitched design on the smaller inner foam board piece.  

Stretch the cross stitch design from the centers outward, and pin with straight pins (we recommend stainless steel) around the perimeter of the board following the grain of the fabric. You may need to make adjustments, but you can pull the pin out  and try again if it isn’t tight or straight enough.

This is how it should look once all the stretching has been completed.  You will be leaving the pins in the piece so make sure you push them all the way into the foam edge.

Now you can pop the outer foam board frame back onto the piece – concealing all the straight pins.  Make the front of the cross stitch sit flush in the foam board frame.

 The final step is placing the mat set onto the design.  Double sided tape works well.  We recommend taping the mat to the outer foam core frame so no adhesive comes in contact with your fabric.

We hope it worked out well for you.  Happy Stitching!

xxxxx