Sorry -- I didn't realize I'd left this out there without sharing the final resolution! First of all, I ruined the silk or poly fabric with the pin holes -- could not get them to close up once pins were removed (to envelope it instead). I did have enough fabric to make it again. Secondly, the idea from the quilt shop, which I followed, was to tack it with matching [blue] thread at the "intersections" in the embroidery. This was a gift, so I am not sure how well it's behaving in their house, but it was intended to cover a buffet and not get much actual usage. Can't seem to find a photo of it at the moment.