After last week's blog post, I was asked on several occasions how to go about framing a quilt block, so I thought today I'd explain how this is done. Framing quilt blocks is a wonderful way to showcase your favorite flower and it makes for a delightful gift.... it’s easier than you might think! Here’s a simple guide to framing your quilt block.
I've used a glass frame for a polished, professional look!
What You’ll Need:
- Your unfinished (no need to add binding) quilt block to fit the size of your frame. I prefer to have my flower block quilted however, you could use a patchwork block that is not quilted.
- A photo frame with a glass cover (glass or perspex is preferred to protect the fabric) Tip: If possible, use UV-protective glass to prevent fabrics from fading.
- Lightweight batting if using an unquilted block
- Acid-free mounting board or mat board
- Double-sided tape, spray adhesive, or a needle and thread
- Optional: decorative mat to frame the block inside the frame - note: your quilt block should extend under this mat for an even fit.
Step 1: Prepare the Quilt Block
First, make sure your quilt block is well-pressed. Give it a light press with an iron to smooth out any wrinkles. Your block should be slightly smaller than the inner dimensions of your frame. Carefully trim it to size if it is not.
If you are using an unquilted block, cut a thin piece of batting the same size as your mounting board and layer it behind your quilt block.
Step 2: Mount the Block
Center your quilt block on the acid-free mounting board. There are a few ways to attach it:
- Double-sided tape or fabric spray adhesive around the edges (be cautious of adhesives showing through light fabrics - test it first on a scrap).
- Hand-stitching the edges of the block to the back of the board with a needle and thread for a completely adhesive-free option.
Smooth the fabric as you secure it to avoid wrinkles or sagging.
Tip: The frame I used for this block has the mounting board slide in from the bottom, so I used tape along the top edge to help keep the layers flat and slide in easily.
Step 3: Assemble the Frame
Ensure both the inside and outside of the frame’s glass are clean. Remove any fingerprints or dust. Then, place your mounted quilt block face down into the frame or slide it in if you are using a similar style of frame like mine. Secure everything tightly.
Note: If you are adding a decorative mat around your quilt block, add it before placing the mounted block inside the frame.
Now your quilt block is ready to be displayed! Choose a spot with indirect sunlight to prevent fading over time, and enjoy seeing your beautiful work every day.
A couple of extra ideas....
- Choose a deep frame (shadow box style) if your block has raised elements - you could have a lot of fun adding decorative insects or embellishments to your flower block
- Add a label to the back of your frame with details about your quilt block—date, your name, pattern name, and who it was made for! I simply printed a label on a sticker and added it. It would probably be better to secure a fabric label instead.
Have you ever made a quilt block so beautiful that you wanted to display it in a frame instead of stitching it into a quilt? Well, now you know how!
Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis) was the BOW flower block featured in this blog post. You can find the pattern here: Bloodroot
Happy Quilting!
