I write this blog post as I look at my studio desk, littered with thread, scissors, and a handful of works in progress on hoops. Selecting a hoop for your hand embroidery project is no great mystery, but I thought I'd share some bits of advice about the types of hoops I use.
I prefer wooden hoops to plastic hoops. And I prefer well made wooden hoops to inexpensive ones. Now, when it comes to wood versus plastic, that may be a personal preference. I find that wood is gentler on the linen fabric I embroider on. With my wooden hoops, I also wrap the inner hoop with cotton twill tape. This helps to minimize the impact of the linen being bound inside the hoop and better protects my stitches as I work. You can do a simple Google search to find some good tutorials for wrapping a hope with tape.
Hardwicke Manor wooden hoops are my favorite. These are German birch hoops with brass hardware. Put them side by side a wood hoop from your local craft shop and you can immediately tell the difference. Hardwicke Manor hoops are stronger, sturdier, and better made.
I recently purchased a Morgan lap stand hoop and have experimented with it a bit. I was looking for a way to lighten the load on my shoulder. It can get sore and tired from holding the hoop. So far, it's been tricky to adjust to using since I still have to flip the hoop back and forth. We'll see.
I've also looked into different types of stands and have bought some Evertite stretcher bar frames that I've yet to put together and experiment with. I will report back any findings here!
Want more of my hand embroidery tips? You can find them here.
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