Be kind to cross stitch                  or what is the matboard hiding? It is not uncommon for treasured embroideries to be passed down through the family generations. Therefore they require the framer to use conservation safe techniques. The fact that there is no original input by the embroiderer into the design, colour selection or technique does not lessen the propriety feeling each embroiderer has about his or her own work. Cross stitch and textile samplers from the mid 1700’s are treasured by family descendants and highly prized collectors.
This cross-stitch example (see fig 1) was displayed for its first Christmas and then stored in a walk in wardrobe. The dampness in the external wall was unnoticed until the cross-stitch was to be displayed the next Christmas. The MDF backing board acted like a blotting paper absorbing the dampness while glazing prevented air circulation. When the mat was removed the full extent of the damage could be seen. The mould and its residue can clearly be seen in fig.2 & 3. It is not uncommon for framers to see pieces whose long term safety has been comprised by the methods used in framing. This particularly applies to the practice of stapling textiles. Leading textile framers suggest it is never appropriate to staple for the following reasons: Effective stapling requires the use of MDF and the mounting board. Even if a barrier of paper or fabric liner is used the textile itself is still at risk because of the moisture absorbing highly acidic MDF. The air compressor used to deliver the staples drives them in with considerable force, frequently cutting through some fabric threads. To maintain tension staples are used in a close line further weakening the fabric. This line of staples is necessarily close to the image area of the embroider. Rust created by the staple (or tack or pin) is absorbed by the textile and further weakens the fibre. The ruled pencil (or worst of all biro) line often used to help line up the cross stitch is a permanent addition to the fabric and something no one would consider acceptable when framing paper. Stainless steel staples are sometimes suggested as an option. There is no guarantee they will remain rust free, especially in unfavourable conditions. (See fig.4) Stapling textile to a board cannot guarantee the fabric will not buckle due to changes in atmosphere. Pinning textile is safer than stapling, However the pins will rust eventually as everyone who has forgotten to remove needles or pins from a stored textile will agree. Double sided tape or self adhesive boards will leave glue residue on the back of the fabric and do not form a permanent bond. Lacing with a needle and thread remains the only option for safe (and reversible) mounting techniques. It would be reasonable to suggest the major issue is the dampness of the storage environment. However, framers have an obligation to use materials, which will maximize safety in adverse conditions. Use of standard foamcore backboard and acid free foamcore for the lacing board probably would have prevented this disaster. Unfortunately, with this example, the cross-stitch was not able to be salvaged and was replaced along with the matboard. The frame, glass and china ornaments were cleaned with ethanol and reused.		Figure 1 What is the mat board hiding? . Figure 2 Mould stains were heavier where the matboard covered the fabric. Vacuuming reduced the stains but did not remove them. Bleaching was not considered. Figure 3 Soft mould appearing from under the matboard Figure 4 Rusted staples and rust stained fabric. The pencil line is permanent.