Get Inspired: 9 Amazing Alternatives To Framing Cross Stitch

A common question I frequently get asked is “What exactly do you do with cross stitch?”. The most obvious answer, of course, is that you can frame and display it, but there is so much more that you can do with it.

One of the things I love most about embroidery is how versatile it can be. In this post, you’ll learn about some alternatives to framing cross stitch, all of which are beautiful and functional!

Stitch A Needle Book

Turning smaller projects into needle books is a beautiful and beneficial solution. Carlie H. turned the floral frog cross stitch into a needle book for her “frogging” tools! It turned out fabulous and will surely be an accessory she can use for years to come.

Sew Into A Quilt Square

Turn your cross stitch project into a quilt square that can be sewn into a larger project. While it’s usually a gradual process of collecting and assembling them, this is an excellent way to display your work.

Turn Your Cross Stitch Into A Pillow

Even if the design and fabric are slightly smaller than the pillow you intend to make, it’s easy to add some fabric along the sides. Gretchen H. made this wonderful pillow from the gardening rabbit cross stitch pattern. The fabric goes along perfectly with the design!

Create An Ornament or Sachet

For smaller projects, it’s easy to sew them into small ornaments or sachets. Add stuffing or some dried lavender, and hang it in a closet or perhaps on a Christmas tree!

Check out this tutorial by Sirious Stitches for some inspiration.

Create A Bookmark

Who doesn’t love a functional embroidery accessory! Making a cross stitch bookmark is easy, it doesn’t take long, and it’s a durable reading accessory that will last for a long time.

Crochet A Border

If you’re a crocheter, adding a border along the edge is a fantastic way to finish a design, especially for larger projects to use as an ornamental mat or doily.

Or check out these decorative stitches to use along the edge of the Aida.

Biscornu Pin Cushions

These 8-sided pin cushions turn out so great with simple, repeating designs. There are plenty of patterns explicitly designed for creating them, but you could just as easily turn your own design into one.

Bell Pulls

These used to be a lot more common in the past, and they were often attached to an actual bell or knob. Now, they’re generally used as a display piece, and they’re certainly more interesting than a frame! Bell pulls work best for long, narrow cross stitch designs.

Patch Your Clothes

Patch a hole or up-cycle a plain piece of clothing. Reinforce the edges of the design with a border stitch and sew your design onto your clothes! Take a look at this patch tutorial to learn how.

Did you get some ideas percolating in your head? I hope so! Let me know what your favorite method is in the comments.