How to Finish Needlepoint: Turning Your Stitches Into Something Fabulous

Hi, Hello, You Did It

You stitched the canvas. You trusted the process. You maybe questioned your life choices once or twice halfway through. And now your needlepoint is done.

So now what?

This is the moment where needlepoint really shines. Finishing is where your canvas goes from “something I stitched” or a lowercase f to “something I actually use and show off” and an uppercase F. And while finishing can sound intimidating, it is actually the most fun part. It is where personality, creativity, and a little flair get to take center stage.

At Georgie & Lottie Co., we believe finishing should feel exciting, not stressful. Whether you love sending things out for professional finishing or enjoy a good DIY moment, there is a finishing option for every canvas and every comfort level.

Let’s talk through all the chic possibilities.

First, Prep Your Canvas Like a Pro

Before we get to the fun stuff, your canvas needs a tiny bit of TLC.

Make sure all threads are ended neatly on the back with no knots or loose tails. If your canvas looks a little wavy or curved, that is normal. Gentle blocking helps straighten everything out before finishing and makes a big difference in the final look.

Blocking a needlepoint canvas is basically giving your stitching a little spa day. Here’s how it works in real life terms.

Once you’re done stitching, you lightly steam or mist the back of the canvas. This relaxes the fibers so they’re ready to behave. While it’s slightly damp, you gently coax the canvas back into shape whether that’s square, rectangular, or round. Think calm stretching, not yanking.

Use a ruler or the canvas grid to keep everything straight and tidy. Then pin it down on a blocking board or mat, making sure those edges are looking crisp and even. Walk away. Let it fully dry for 12 to 24 hours so it can set and stay put.

When it’s dry, your canvas should be flat, polished, and ready for finishing. Basically the needlepoint equivalent of a blowout and a good night’s sleep.

If you plan to send your canvas out, your finisher will do this part.

Frame It and Call It Art

Framing is the classic for a reason. It is timeless, polished, and instantly elevates your stitching.

Needlepoint looks beautiful framed on its own or paired with a mat for contrast. Many stitchers skip the glass so the texture of the stitches can really shine. Framed needlepoint works especially well for monograms, sayings, and detailed designs you want to see every day.

This finish is perfect for desks, gallery walls, and thoughtful gifts. And yes, it absolutely counts as art.

Pillows That Feel Custom and Cozy

If needlepoint finishing had a fan favorite, it would be pillows.

Needlepoint pillows add personality to sofas, beds, and chairs without feeling precious. They are cozy, classic, and endlessly versatile. You can keep things tailored with a clean edge or add trim for a little extra personality.

Because pillows get real use, professional finishing is usually the way to go. A well finished pillow holds its shape, wears beautifully, and feels just as good as it looks.

If you are dreaming of a pillow project, browse canvases designed with finishing in mind.

Ornaments That Become Keepsakes

Ornaments are small but mighty. They are one of the most popular needlepoint finishes and one of the most meaningful.

Perfect for initials, dates, and festive designs, needlepoint ornaments come out year after year and somehow feel even more special with time. They are wonderful gifts and great projects for beginners who want a polished finish without committing to something large.

Ornaments can be finished at home, but we highly recommend watching several how-to-videos before attempting it - there is definitely a learning curve.

Key Fobs and Key Chains You Actually Want to Use

Needlepoint does not have to live only on your couch or wall. Key fobs and key chains are fun, functional finishes that let you enjoy your stitching every single day.

These work best with strong stitches and bold designs. We offer a leather self-finishing option.

The result is a small accessory that feels thoughtful, personal, and surprisingly chic.

Picture Frames

Needlepoint picture frames are charming. And there are so many fabulous designs out there. The designs add so much to your decor, especially a nursery.

Picture frames definitely need a professional finisher.

Christmas Stockings

Needlepoint Christmas stockings are often stitched slowly and lovingly over time. And for good reason. They tend to become family heirlooms. Natasha and Alonsa’s Auny Debby needlepointed their stockings as gifts and they are so incredibly special.

Stockings require structure, lining, and careful construction, so professional finishing is strongly recommended. Planning ahead is key here, especially if you want it back in time for the holidays.

The payoff is huge. A needlepoint stocking is tradition stitched in thread.

Acrylic Tray Inserts

If you love a modern twist, acrylic finishes are having a moment.

Acrylic trays with needlepoint inserts let you swap designs seasonally or whenever the mood strikes.

Some acrylic finishes can be done at home, while others benefit from professional help for precision and fit.

Door Hangers With Personality

Door hangers are where needlepoint gets extra fun.

Door hangers work beautifully for seasonal decor or welcoming messages (or snarky ones). These finishes feel fresh, current, and very giftable.

They involve backing and cording. If you can handle an ornament, you can DIY a door hanger.

Coasters

Needlepoint coasters are a fun project! They can match your decor or have fun sayings or a have cocktail motifs (like our Espresso Martini).

Coasters usually require professional finishing.

Eye Glass/sunglass case

This is for sure a professional finisher item! It needs to be lined and two needlepoint canvases need to be attached. Sometimes, cording is added, too. Trust us, trust a pro for this!

DIY or Professional Finishing: How to Choose

Here is the simple rule. If the project needs structure, hardware, or durability, professional finishing is usually worth it.

DIY finishing works well for
Frame it
Simple acrylic inserts like trays
Leather insert items like bag charms, key chains and luggage tags

Professional finishing shines for
Pillows
Coasters
Stockings

When in doubt, ask before you finish. A little guidance goes a long way.

The Best Part About Finishing Needlepoint

Finishing is where needlepoint becomes part of your life. It turns stitches into gifts, decor, traditions, and everyday favorites.

There is no wrong choice. The best finish is the one that makes you smile when you see it or use it. And honestly, that is the whole point.

So frame it. Pillow it. Hang it. Gift it. Use it. Just do not leave it as a “f” in a drawer, make sure it becomes a “F”!

*lowercase f = a fully stitch canvas

uppercase F = a canvas that has been finished into something