How to finish a cross stitch in a hoop for hanging
The quickest finish there is, and the one that suits a square chart on black fabric best.
Choosing the hoop
Pick a hoop at least an inch larger than the design on every side, so the fabric shows as a border. Wooden hoops can be stained or painted; a black-stained hoop around black aida is striking. Wash and press the work first.
Mounting
Centre the design in the inner ring, press the outer ring on, and pull the fabric taut all the way round, tightening the screw as you go. Check the design is square to the screw, which will be the top.
The back
Trim the fabric to about an inch and a half beyond the ring. Run a strong gathering thread around the edge and pull it tight so the excess folds inside the ring, then knot. Cut a circle of felt a little smaller than the hoop and glue or stitch it over the back to cover the gathering.
Hanging
The screw is the hanger. A loop of ribbon or twine around it is enough for a hoop up to eight inches; for a larger one add a small sawtooth hanger to the back of the ring.
