Anyone who performs cross stitch or hand stitching is familiar with embroidery hoops, but there is a lot to learn about these common instruments. This post will teach you all you need to know about embroidery hoops, including the many types, how to choose the proper one, and how (and when) to use them.
Continue reading to learn everything there is to know about embroidery hoops. Do you want to add some hoops to your toolbox? Tonic Studios has a large assortment.
Why do you need to use an embroidery hoop?
The decision to utilise (or not use) an embroidery hoop is influenced by a variety of factors, including the type of stitching, the fabric used, and your level of experience.
When performing hand needlework, having your fabric taut in an embroidery hoop can be really useful. Tension aids in the creation of neater stitches. It can also help to keep puckering between sutures at bay.
Some types of hand needlework, such as sashiko, do not require the use of a hoop.
Using a hoop for cross stitch isn't as necessary as it is for hand stitching, but it can help you make more equal stitches. If you're new to cross stitching, using a hoop can help you control the fabric, see the holes more clearly, and keep your stitch tension consistent.
Fabric selection is also important. When cross stitching on linen, I prefer to use a hoop over Aida because having the fabric taut allows me to see the finer weave of the linen. A hoop can also come in handy when cross stitching on dark fabric or using speciality threads.
Types of embroidery hoops
There are various types of embroidery hoops. They all hold cloth in essentially the same way: sandwiched between an inner and outer ring. The fundamental distinction between the sorts is how tension is applied to the fabric.
Screw tension
The most frequent type of embroidery hoop. A screw on the outer ring allows you to adjust the tension on the hoop. Screw tension hoops are widely available in a variety of materials, diameters, and shapes.
Spring tension
Tension is provided in these hoops by a metal inner ring that slots into a grove in the plastic outer ring. Spring tension hoops, which are commonly used for machine embroidery, can also be utilised for hand embroidery and cross stitch. The handles are big and might get in the way, but they keep the fabric nice and snug.
Flexi hoops
The appearance of flexi hoops is similar to that of real wood, but they are manufactured of a flexible vinyl that fits firmly over an inner plastic ring. They hold the fabric quite tightly, although they can be difficult to use. I prefer to use them for framing finished pieces rather than sewing with them.
Q-Snaps
Q-snaps aren't exactly hoops, but they're a popular choice among cross stitchers. They're lightweight, easy to carry, and come in a variety of sizes.
