Sometimes the simplest finishing idea can turn a small quilt block into a really lovely gift - and framing is one of my favorite ways to do it!
A single framed block makes a wonderful gift, but if you have a little more time, why not make a set of coordinating pieces? Hang them together and suddenly you've got a little collection of quilted art for the wall.
Framing is one of the methods I cover in my “20 Methods to Finish Your Quilts” ebook, where I share lots of different ideas for finishing both large and small quilts: 20 Methods to Finish Your Quilts
Today, though, I want to show you a particularly easy way to frame a quilt block or small quilt using something you may already have in your sewing room: an embroidery hoop!
Embroidery Hoops Aren't Just for Embroidery!
Embroidery hoops come in all sorts of shapes, sizes and colors. I'm using a round hoop for this example, but you can also find oval and square hoops, so there are plenty of possibilities.
A hoop has two sections: the inner hoop and the outer hoop. The outer hoop has the screw mechanism, and when the two pieces are put together, they hold your quilt firmly in place.... And that's really all there is to it!
Well... almost. There are a few little tricks that will make the finished result much better.
Plan for Your Hoop
Ideally, it's best to think about framing when you're planning your block/quilt. But don't worry if you've already made the quilt or block - it's still possible to frame it.
The main thing to remember is that you need at least 2" of fabric to extend beyond all edges of the hoop you're using. In other words, make your block/quilt at least 4" larger than the hoop.
It also helps if you haven't quilted right out to the edges of the hoop area. That way, you can trim away some of the excess batting and reduce the bulk inside the two sections of hoop. Alternatively, you can use a very fine batting such as Pellon.
And if your quilt isn't quite large enough, don't despair! You can extend it by adding a border. My “20 Methods to Finish Your Quilts” ebook includes ideas for adding curved or oval borders, which can be particularly useful when you're working with round or oval hoops.
Getting Everything Centered
Once your block/quilt is the right size, it's time to get it positioned.
Find the center of your piece by measuring the width and height and marking the center point. Then find the center of your hoop in the same way adding small marks on the inner section only (these won't be seen when finished).
Place the hoop over the block/quilt and line up the centers.
Now check around the outside. You should have at least 2" of extra fabric all the way around the hoop. (You don't need exactly 2", it could be a little less but it is helpful not too make it too small as it gets tricky to work with.)
If you don't have enough fabric, this is the point to stop and add a border or some extensions. It's much easier to fix it now than after you've started assembling everything!
Trim Away Some Bulk
Once you're happy with the size and positioning, turn the block/quilt over.
Place the smaller, inner hoop on the back and line it up with your center markings. Draw around the outside of the hoop.
Now trim away the excess batting (and only the batting) back to this line. Be careful not to cut the top!
Removing this extra batting reduces the bulk between the two sections of the hoop, which will make it much easier to get everything sitting neatly.
Putting the Quilt in the Hoop
Now comes the fun part!
Place the inner section of the hoop on a flat surface and carefully center your block/quilt over it.
Position the outer hoop over the top and gently press it down over the inner hoop.
Keep it nice and taut as you work, then tighten the screw mechanism.
Don't worry if it's not perfectly tight on the first try. You can adjust it!
Turn the hoop over and gently pull the excess fabric at the back to tighten the front fabrics. Then tighten the screw a little more.
Keep working your way around the block/quilt, pulling and adjusting as necessary. Check the front frequently to make sure it is still centered and wrinkle-free. You want the finished work to be nice and taut.
A screwdriver can be useful for giving the hoop mechanism that final little bit of tightening.
Finishing the Back
Once you're happy with the front, turn the whole thing over.
Trim the excess backing fabric, leaving at least an inch or so beyond the edge of the hoop.
Now take a needle and double thread and sew a running stitch approximately ¼" from the raw edge.
Once you've gone all the way around, pull the thread up to gather the excess fabric.
Work your way around, adjusting the gathers so they sit evenly. Before you knot off the thread, turn the piece over and have one last look at the front. If anything has shifted or a wrinkle has appeared, this is your chance to fix it! Once you're happy, knot the thread securely.
You can also apply a little Fray Check to the raw edges if you'd like to prevent the fabric from fraying. You may also cut a piece of card the same size and glue it over the back if you wish.
And That's It!
What started as a simple quilt block can now become a piece of quilted wall art!
I particularly like this method for small quilts because the hoop becomes part of the finished design. And because hoops come in so many different sizes and shapes, you can have lots of fun experimenting.
You could even make a series of small quilted pieces using coordinating fabrics or a collection of quilt blocks. Displayed together, they can make a wonderful feature wall - or a very special handmade gift.
And, of course, if you're looking for even more ideas for finishing quilts, both large and small, take a look at my “20 Methods to Finish Your Quilts” ebook. There are plenty of different techniques to try, so you don't always have to finish a quilt in the traditional way!
