How do you properly finish and frame a project?  

I would suggest taking it to a local frame shop or craft store that does framing. I know that Michael's, A.C. Moore and Hobby Lobby all do framing in store. They might have some good suggestions and can actually do the framing right there in the store.

Go to this website http://members.aol.com/hblossomxs/frame.html

It gives great instructions on how to clean, mount and frame your own projects. I have been cleaning, mounting and framing my own projects for years. I like this website as it gives really good instructions. I do things a tiny bit differently, but each stitcher will find their own ways. This site is a good place to start.

You could always have them professionally framed, but you would want to find a framer that actually knows what they are doing. I have found that my local Michael's does not have any idea what they are doing when it comes to framing cross stitch pieces.

Personally, I use acid free mounting boards, the padded kind. I use a repositionable spray adheasive to hold my piece on the mounting board. Before placing my piece on the mounting board, I measure 5 inches past the edge of hte board and zigzag my edges. Then once I have the piece positioned correctly, I will lace my piece to the mounting board. Then I will frame it.

Just a tip: Always buy your frame to fit the piece first. That way you will not go to the trouble of mounting your piece only to find that it will not fit the frame.

Some people say do not use glass on the pieces and others say to use glass. It is really personally preference. I use glass to keep the pieces clean unless I have a lot of detail work (french knots, beads, etc). Then I will leave the glass off.

I hope this helps you out.