Decide on a size for your ornament -- you can come in on the stitching, or leave a margin you like. Cut two pieces of foam core to that size (I think mine were 4 1/2 inches). If you want a nice even line, have your frame shop cut you some foam core.
Stretch the needlework on one of the pieces, with a same-sized piece of poly-batting (not fill), between the foam core and the stitching. I have stretching instructions on my web site, but basically I use straight pins and push them all of the way into the sides of the foam core, through the stitching, pulling and stretching as I go. THESE PINS STAY IN (you don't take them out). In the same mannner, stretch a piece of fabric onto the other foam core (it could be a blank piece of the same fabric you use for stitching, or a piece of patterned or plain fabric.
Double-stick tape the fabric down along the edges of the back of each piece of foam core. Trim the corners, so they lay nice and flat. Then double-stick tape the ornament front to the ornament back.
To cover up the pins on the sides, tape (or hot glue) a length of ribbon around the edges of the ornament. This will cover up your pin heads and give it a nice finished look. If you make it so the seam on the ribbon is on the top, you can attach a big wire-edged ribbon bow on the top. You could also have the seam of the edge ribbon land on the bottom, where most people won't see it. If you REALLY want to get fancy, use more pieces of foam core between, to make an even blockier block. Or make a very fancy bow, with holiday charms, bits of silk flowers, or other variety picks (berries, birds, etc.) you can find at your local craft store.
I guarantee this will take some of the "oof" out of your ornament finishing chores this season, and free up time for at LEAST one more cup of hot chocolate.
© 2007 Theresa Venette. Articles on this site may be reproduced in needlework group newsletters or other handouts with permission of author and proper attribution. Send questions, comments and suggestions to: xspeddler@yahoo.com