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[patbz]

I need an online source for framing a finished piece of stitched. I live in a small city that doesn't have a frame shop.

[tkins]

Hi patbz,

I found 2 places on the internet, that do framing by mail. I have not used either one of them, but will definitely keep them in mind. They both seem to be small companies, that would take good care of customers. I checked out both sites, but did not see anything about framing stitchery, but Simply Framed does mention textiles and scarves for framing and I would email them and ask. Both have lots of very nice frames and keeping the process and materials easy and affordable (Framed & Matted offers $10.00 off your first order if you sing up for their email list).

Here are the links:

http://framedandmatted.com/

http://simplyframed.com/

Hope this helps.

tkins

[esmeraldagooch]

I could talk you thru it. I'm a custom framer and needle art specialist.

[sciencegeek_1]

If you have a Michaels craft store, most locations have a framing department. I've had stitchery pieces framed there.

[Libbylady]

Esmeralda... I have been a custom framer for 42 years! Do you work for someone or have your own shop? Framing has gotten tough in the last 6-7 years with so many suppliers going out of business.

Patbz... I don't want to hijack your thread. I've just never see another framer on the Q board before. Be sure if you mail your needlework off, that you either wsh it or have it dry cleaned. Any finger oil or smudges will discolor over time and be much more noticable. Also, don't let the needle work lay against any glass. Be sure to have either matting or "spacers" seperating the glass from the surface of the glass.

[esmeraldagooch]

Libbylady, I have my own shop. Yes, it's been a bad industry unless you specialize in something. I do custom shadow boxes.

[esmeraldagooch]

LL, I haven't met you before either. I wouldn't want to send my needlework out to a unknown source for framing. I have been there and done that myself before buying my equipment and my cross stitch was ruined by a inexperienced framer in under 6 weeks using the wrong components. This needlework took months to complete and was ruined by a so called reputable frame shop.

Since there is NO real school except courses framing companies put on, most framers are self taught or take online or classes from members of the PPFA to become proficient and prove validity. This forum member can't be sure the person working on her piece has any training framing her needlework and may end up with something stretched on regular cardboard with spray adhesive, hidden behind glass.

I would advise if she does send it our she find out as much as possible about the frame shop and the components they will be using on her piece. If the needlework is a normal size she could wash and press, stretch it herself with a little help, some acid free foamboard and a acid free mat. This would assure she got the job done correctly and much cheaper. You and I both know this is not rocket science and we could walk anyone though this. I just thought I would try to help.

The late Vivian Kistler made these easy to follow books and videos.

http://www.amazon.com/Needlework-Framing-Library-Professional-Picture/dp/0938655027

http://www.pmai.org/online/core/orders/product.aspx?catid=7&prodid=327

[Libbylady]

EG...Thanks for your response! It was a surprise to find another framer! You are correct about training. I had some in art college, but confined primarily to presentation of my own work. The rest came from classes at distributors and conventions, plus books and the old Decor mag, now PFM. Everything else was from experience. I think the difference in framing comes from the design. There are no "rules" for that!

I am winding down with my framing now. Several medical issues have begun to sap my energy and I'm finding it harder to meet my turnaround times. I also began teaching art classes to home-school children and that is growing. Just when I thought I might retire, I found a new passion! Not sure where I'll go in the future. It would be hard to close the framing since I enjoy the variety it brings.

[I am still oxox]

I would never feel comfortable sending my work to some one I do not know to frame.

I would be uncomfortable that what I want would be what I got, what you see on the screen in not always what you end up with, regarding color of the frame etc.

I know I made a frame for needlework sometime in my past life but I am not sure where or when

[forest4thetrees]

Patbz, I've done cross stitch a long, long, time, now ... For about the last 20 years I've used Barb at The Rocking Horse to do all my framing. She does a wonderful job. Of course, I hand-carry in and pick it up; but as the store receives deliveries all the time for cross-stitch supplies, I'm sure something could be arranged for you to ship your piece to her. Google her shop to see many pieces of her work showcased, or e-mail her and ask about your situation, try Barb@therockinghorse.com.

Good luck!