Have Your Say

Hoops and Frames Response

It seems you all enjoyed our recent article ‘Putting You in the Frame’ from All Stitched Up! issue #224 as we’ve had some wonderful emails in response. Thank you to everyone who wrote in, and we’d love you to keep the ideas and stories coming by emailing news@inspirationsstudios.com!

Ruth Davis

‘Dear Inspirations, you forgot to mention the Q-Snap frames!

They are a sort of hybrid between a hoop and a scroll frame. Very light to hold, which is good for people with hand or wrist issues. And if you buy a couple of different sizes, you can mix and match the components to get the size you need.

I think they’re less damaging to your fabric and stitching than a hoop too.’

You’re absolutely correct, Ruth and thank you for the reminder. In fact, at least one member of the Inspirations Team (an avid cross-stitcher) swears by Q-Snaps, especially for large cross stitch projects! Constructed out of PVC pipe, they are very light and give excellent tension. Some people have found it difficult to put the snaps on and take them off, but sliding rather than clipping them can help.

Stephanie

‘I am using a needlework frame called Evertite. After your piece has been stapled or nailed to the frame, it can be tightened.’

This frame wasn’t as familiar to us, Stephanie so thank you for bringing it to our attention. Mary Corbet has written a great article about these frames which you can read about HERE.

Marcia Acker-Missall

‘I use good quality wood hoops in various sizes depending upon the dimensions of the embroidery I am making.

In order to avoid crushing embroidery work already done, I machine sew side fabric panels onto my piece enlarging the entire work area and then place the work into a larger hoop.

Often I will use a larger oval size hoop instead of a round one.’

That’s great advice, Marcia, especially for people who prefer to use hoops over some of the more permanent devices like slate frames.

Brenda Campbell

‘For most of my stitching life I’ve used various sized hoops but recently I began a large project and didn’t want my stitches being crushed. So, I purchased a scroll frame to suit the width of the design. I like the vertical tension, but the horizontal tension was seriously lacking, especially in the centre of the fabric.’

‘After brainstorming with some friends, we have found the perfect solution and it doesn’t involve true lacing.

The process involves covered elastic hairbands and small, half inch binder clips.

The binder clips are quick to release when you’re ready to scroll forward and the hair bands maintain the tension. I’d also recommend that you release the tension on the bands after each stitching session, so they don’t become too stretched. Theoretically they could be replaced, but it would be such a hassle to remount the work!’

What a great idea, Brenda. The innovation of stitchers knows no bounds!

Christine Wellnitz

‘I always do my cross-stich without a frame, as well as most of my needle-lace and needlepoint. Only occasionally will I use a small, 10cm hoop frame.

For metalwork, needlepainting, crewelwork or bead embroidery, I always use one of my different slate frames.

I know that there is no rule for this and most people use their frames in many different ways.

As long as the result is what we are looking for, who cares?!’

That is so true, Christine. The only rule is to do what feels the most comfortable and works for you and your project.

Thanks again to everyone for sharing your ideas and suggestions – we always love hearing from you. Please let us know if there is anything else you’d like us to feature as we’re always looking for ways to share the knowledge you’re searching for.