Consider the following points before taking your work to be framed :-
Place the needlework on a clean white board or background to show up any stains, tail ends, running stitches etc.
Cut off any trailing ends of thread that you do not want to see ghosted through the fabric - it is unfair to ask the framer to cut these off (We always keep a pair of scissors available at our premises for customers to do this ).
On needlepoint/cross stitch work hold the work up to the light to check for missed stitches etc.
Check the needlework for pet hairs as these can become trapped under stitches and can even work their way through from the back of the fabric to the front.
Wash or clean any needlework where necessary - you know what fabric and threads you have used and what is the appropriate method of cleaning.
Light is a danger to be aware of as all light fades works of art on fabric. Fading cannot be entirely stopped by subdued lighting but obviously the stronger the light exposure then the faster the fading will occur. Avoid hanging any artwork in direct sunlight particularly as the Ultra-Violet (UV) rays can be very harmful. Fluorescent lights are also a strong sources of UV rays. Display your artwork as far away from direct light as possible and consider using UV Protective glass for any valuable or treasured pieces.
It is not a good idea to hang artwork directly above heat sources, such as radiators, as the increased airflow, caused by the warm air rising across the face of the artwork, can help to carry pollutants and the greater fluctuations in temperature when the heating switches on and off can encourage cockling.
The hanging cord/wire on the back of the frame should be inspected annually for signs of damage or weakening, paying particular attention to where the cord/wire crosses wall hooks or support rings on the frame as these areas are the most likely stress points.
