Water Canvaswork finally mounted and framed

One of the things I like the least about being an embroiderer is mounting pieces for framing.I know it's important to do well. I know it makes a huge difference to the safety and longevity of the embroidery. I know it's a skill I need to have and to use...but gosh, I really don't like it. Really, really, really don't like it!It takes forever, it hurts my hands and it's hard. Especially hard when you're working with needlepoint canvas. The canvas is stiff and unforgiving. It's difficult to stretch over the card and secure down. All that said, I do it myself because I trust myself to do it properly. After all the work I've put into creating a beautiful piece of embroidery, I do NOT want it ruined by someone who doesn't know what they're doing when they mount it. And, so far, I haven't found anyone I trust as much as I trust myself. And when it's finished, it feels so good!The frame is a little box frame from IKEA - perfect for something this contemporary. When I finish the other three pieces in the series - Earth, Air and Fire - they will go in the same kind of frame and make a fabulous set.In spite of all my moaning about how much I dislike mounting, I did discover something that helped me with the pain in my hands and the lack of strength as I get older: wear rubber gloves. Those of you who read my blog regularly know that I recommended cutting the finger tips off of rubber gloves to help you grip the needle. Well, it occurred to me part way through the mounting that rubber gloves would also help me grip the canvas, allowing me to pull it more firmly and hold onto it better. It worked a treat!Do you have any tips for mounting? Or tips for working with hands that are painful and losing their strength? Let us know by leaving a comment!