Using cross stitch to make small objects

[T-1000]

Hello! I've been using plastic canvas to make small charms and such for keychains. As the plastic canvas only goes as high as 14 count, the charms come out too big for my liking. I would prefer to use embroidery cloth to do this project because I can get a higher stitch count, but I don't know what to do to make the finished product hard enough so it doesn't get frayed or ripped. Does anyone have tips on how to put the cross stitch onto a hard back or can direct me to a previous topic post that addresses a similar question.

p.s. I also like to make the charms double-sided so i can't see the back of the pattern. Any advice would be welcome!

[Eliste]

Have you considered either a tear away stabilizer or starch? Both can help stabilize projects a lot, but I'm not sure they'll give you the same effect as plastic.

[pinkcatflower]

Well, I have used something called fusible interfacing for garment sewing. You can get different weights, but basically it is a cloth-like stiffener which you can iron on (one side has sticky bits which melt to bond with the fabric). I don't know anything about how to make these small objects of yours, so I don't know if it's applicable but just my input!

[techno-ninja]

you could always stitch onto the fabric you want then attach it to plastic canvas after, that way you get the quality image with a sturdy back.

[T-1000]

These suggestions are all very helpful. Thank you very much!

[thingie1234]

depending on how big it is, you might look into cover buttons. I've gotten some good effects out of them.

viewtopic.php?f=3&t=1839

If they're not going to be magnets, though, go with the cover buttons rather than bottle caps, and remove the bracket on the back with a pair of pliers before you put the thing together. They're available in a huge number of sizes, which helps.
A 7/8 inch button with 22 count fabric will hold a 16x16 sprite as long as it's not a square (think rounded), and a 1 1/8 inch one will hold a 16x16 square pretty well (again, with 22 count fabric). Even on 18 count, a 1 1/8 inch button will hold a rounded 16x16 sprite.

Here's the basic idea: http://www.discountembroideryblanks.com/inforcobu.html

There's even square ones, though they are a little pricey:
http://www.amazon.com/Nylon-Upholstery- ... B0018NC0U6

I will admit that the back is still a metal button, rather than the pattern again.