How to mount Hoop Art in an Embroidery Hoop! (the easy way!)

Over the last few years I have experimented with many different ways to mount my stitchy work. One of my favourite methods is to display work in embroidery hoops.
I think at last I have developed a fool proof method of doing this. I thought it was time to share what I have discovered. This tutorial is quickest, easiest, neatest method for displaying hoop art that I have come across.  (honestly its really easy) Just follow the simple steps below.

You will need:  Your lovely sewing & an embroidery hoop
Thick mount card (step 1)
Wadding (step 2 & 6)
Double side sticky tape (preferably 15mm wide) (step 4)
Fabric scissors (Step 3)
Card cutting Scissors (Step 1)
Copydex glue. This is a Latex based glue and is perfect for this job as it is good for sticking both card and fabric. It seems to dry quickly, is not messy to use and has a strong finish. (Step 7)
Ribbon for hanging.(Step 8)

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1. Firstly prepare your card and wadding. Mark out the size of you backing card on the mount board with a pencil.  Use the inside of the OUTER hoop as a guide then cut out with your card cutting scissors. This may be a bit tough if the card is thick but the thicker the card the sturdier you finished work will feel. Do not use you fabric scissors as this will destroy the blades.

2. Use your cut out as a guide to cut the wadding. I have used two layers of thin wadding on this project but it also comes in a thicker weight.

3. Next fix your work in place and cut around your work leaving around 1cm protruding from the hoop.  If you are nervous you could mark around where you are going to cut with an embroidery pen.

Please note that if you are mounting work on Aida it is more  important not to have an excess of fabric as it will be visible through your work. You are aiming for just enough to tuck in)

4. Now line the inside of your hoop with double sided tape. It is much easier not to try doing this is one piece. I start with two opposite sides, and then remove the protective layers before filling in the gaps.

5. With the sticky tape in place you can begin to secure the fabric in place. Working in a clockwork direction, pull the fabric taut with your left hand, whilst tucking it in with your right. Work your way all around the hoop.

6. Place your wadding in the back of your hoop. Trim to fit if necessary.

7. Brush Copydex glue around the back edge of your card. Place the card in position. then apply a weight to make sure the surfaces adhere.

8. Your hoop is now finished. All that is left to do is personalise you work if required. Add ribbon for hanging, labels or a signature to the back so that everybody knows that it is your work.

9. Display and enjoy!!!

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