Make Finishing Fun™ ~ A Valentine Finish For Hazel

There’s something extra special about taking a sweet stitched piece and giving it a finish that feels just as thoughtful as the design itself. Today I’m sharing a Valentine finish for Hazel that combines painted wood, cozy fabric layers, and a few simple finishing techniques that anyone can do at home.

This project is a perfect example of what Make Finishing Fun™ is all about—breaking finishing down into manageable, enjoyable steps that let your stitching shine without stress.

Step 1: Painting the Board

I started with a small wooden board and painted it using Chalk Couture Chalk Paste in Cabernet. This rich, deep red felt perfect for a Valentine project—warm, classic, and just a little rustic.

The chalk paste goes on smoothly and dries quickly, making it ideal for finishing projects like this. Once the paint was completely dry, I sealed the board with Gloss-Lustre Decoupage, giving it a soft sheen and added durability without overpowering the color.

Step 2: Building the Fabric Layers

To give the piece depth and structure, I cut three layers of mounting board, each slightly smaller than the last. These layers help create that framed, finished look while keeping everything lightweight.

Each layer was covered with coordinating fabric—simple, cozy patterns that complement the Valentine palette without distracting from the stitching. Taking the time to stack and wrap these layers really elevates the final piece.

Step 3: Mounting the Stitching

For the stitched design itself, I mounted Hazel onto a board with a layer of batting underneath. The batting adds just enough softness to give the stitching a beautiful, finished look without making it bulky.

This is one of my favorite techniques because it’s forgiving, beginner-friendly, and always looks polished when you’re done.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

To finish it all off, I added a fabric-covered button and tied a coordinating ribbon at the top of the board. These little details pull everything together and add that handmade charm we all love.

Sometimes it’s the smallest touches that make a finish feel complete.

A Finish Made to Be Enjoyed

This Valentine finish for Hazel is sweet, simple, and full of personality—proof that finishing doesn’t have to be complicated to be beautiful. Whether you’re creating something seasonal or just want to try a new finishing idea, projects like this are a wonderful way to build confidence and enjoy the process.

If finishing has ever felt intimidating, I hope this encourages you to give it a try. One step at a time, one layer at a time—you’ve got this.

✨ Make Finishing Fun™—because your stitching deserves to be enjoyed all the way to the finish. ✨

PS  Look for Hazel and the other 2 designs that will complete our Cottagecore Valentine series, tomorrow,
right here at anabellas.net or in our Etsy shop!