How to frame small needlework pieces?

[HamblesHandbag]

is it possible to do this myself? I've been looking for an embroidery hoop that would act as a frame, but my google skills are failing me.

They used to sell them on urban-cross-stitch.com but don't seem to any more.

Other than hoops, is it hard to frame small needlework, eg, does it need stretching?

Anyone?

Hambles, if you want to frame it, you could try this:
www.juneatnoon.com/2009/10/lacing-an-embroidery/

Don't they still make flexi-frames? Like an embroidery hoop but the outer bit is either coloured, or brown wood-effect. Ideal for small pieces but they are generally round or oval.

If you want to use a proper square / rectangular frame with glass, then I don't think you would need to stretch it, but it's not hard to do, if you wanted to. Just put a stiff piece of card on the back of the fabric, then fold your fabric over it, and stitch the opposite edges of the fabric together, zig-zagging across the card. (Hope that makes sense.) then do the other two edges, pulling it nice and tight,

Whatever you do, do iron your finished piece - I've seen so many framed pieces that are horribly crumpled, I do wonder why people would make so little effort finishing a piece they've obviously spent a lot of time on. It makes a massive difference.

If the needlework is grubby from handling, you might need to give it a quick wash in a weak solution of warmish water and laundry liquid.

This is brilliant, thanks. I'd never have thought of that myself!