Every stitcher has a drawer of finished pieces they never quite got around to displaying. That is a shame, because a cross stitch that is seen brings far more joy than one hidden away. Framing is the classic choice, but it is only one of many. Here are creative ways to show off your work.
Hoop art
Leaving a finished piece in its hoop is one of the most popular modern ways to display cross stitch, and one of the easiest:
- Choose an attractive wooden or coloured hoop that suits the design
- Trim the excess fabric, gather it at the back and secure it neatly
- Add a ribbon to hang it, or group several hoops together on a wall
Hoop art is quick, needs no framing skills, and a cluster of different-sized hoops makes a charming display. It suits small and medium pieces especially well.
Traditional framing
A framed piece behind a mount looks polished and protects the work. It suits samplers, keepsakes and anything you want to treat as proper wall art. Our guide on finishing and framing covers washing, pressing and mounting so a framed piece looks its best.
Cushions and soft furnishings
Larger designs make wonderful cushion fronts. Backed with a coordinating fabric and stuffed, a stitched cushion brings your work into daily life where you can enjoy it. Table runners, tea towels and bags can carry stitching too, though pieces that will be handled or washed often need sturdier finishing.
Cards and framed miniatures
Small pieces shine as greetings cards and little framed miniatures. A stitched card is a keepsake the recipient displays rather than throws away, and a tiny motif in a small frame makes a sweet shelf decoration. These are perfect for using up leftover thread.
Ornaments and hanging decorations
Turn a small design into a hanging ornament, padded and backed with felt, with a loop of ribbon to hang it. Festive motifs are the obvious choice, but ornaments work all year round on door handles, shelves and pin boards. Our Christmas cross stitch guide has plenty of festive ideas.
Jar lids, coasters and little extras
Small finishing kits let you set stitching into jar lids, coasters, keyrings, pincushions and trinket pots. These practical little finishes make lovely gifts and put your smallest pieces to good use.
Wearable and useful pieces
For the adventurous, cross stitch can become brooches, badges and patches, or be worked directly onto clothing and bags. Wearable stitching keeps your craft with you and always draws a compliment.
Grouping and rotating your work
However you finish individual pieces, think about them together:
- Group by theme or colour for a cohesive wall
- Mix sizes and finishes, such as hoops beside frames, for visual interest
- Rotate seasonal pieces so festive and seasonal stitching gets its moment each year
A thoughtfully arranged display turns a collection of projects into a feature of your home.
From finished piece to next project
Displaying your work has a happy side effect. Seeing your finished pieces on the wall is the best motivation to start the next one. If you are ready for a new design, browse the pattern catalogue and pick something that will look wonderful in a hoop, a frame or a cushion.
Do not let your stitching languish in a drawer. Whether it is a hoop on the wall or a cushion on the sofa, get it out where you and everyone else can enjoy it.