Suggestion floating antique linen

[Frameup125]

I have a large piece(24 X 30) of linen from around 1890. The edges are unfinished. My customer wants to float it on mat board. I am afraid that stiching it is going to pull holes in the fabric. Any suggestions?
Thanks
Tommy

 

[FramerDave]

Direct contact overlay.

 

[Cavalier]

Just throwing this out, but what about using a ball-point needle? That way the weave is pushed away rather than punctured.