Anyone not use a hoop when cross stitching?

[TinkerPixie]

I always thought you had to use a hoop, but when I started stitching, my co worker, who does beautiful embroidery, told me I didn't have to. If you learn to hold the material right, it isn't necessary. Well I practiced, and found out I like working without a hoop better. You can move and turn the projects so much quicker and easier!

Any other oddballs like me out there?

 

[Meriweather]

I don't use a hoop and neither does my daughter....but we know we are oddballs

 

[Rajah]

Most of the time I use either a hoop or (my preference) a Q-snap, but sometimes I don't. I don't use a hoop when I do silk ribbon embroidery, though.

 

[bananiem]

When I was still into cross stitching I never used a hoop. My older sister got me started in it and hadn't used one either. I was in my early 20's before I realized some people did!

 

[jimmytammy]

I don't use a hoop, I do put masking tape around the edges to keep it together so that the threads in the material don't start coming off.

Tammy

 

[The LK 4]

Okay, now I feel like the oddball! I always have to use a hoop. Everytime I try to cross stitch without one, my fingers get cramped trying to hold the material taut enough. Any tips to help me get "hoopless"?

 

[chessie]

I have never used a hoop.
My friend uses some sort of roller that she attaches both short ends to and rolls it sort of like a scroll.
I have always been told that a hoop damages the threads.

 

[aprincessmom]

No hoop here

 

[jipsy]

No hoop for me either. But I have gotten used to using a frame for larger projects. Instead of buying one, I just made it. It's about 10 X 12 and made out of soft wood. Use flat pushpins to hold the fabric in place.

I tried using the scroll type, but just can't get into it.

I want to try one of these though:

I have friends who swear by them.

I just find it easiest to roll up the end of the fabric and hold onto it in my hand.

 

[Kermit]

I never use a hoop. I'm not coordinated enough to get the cloth inside it.

 

[Kim in TN]

No hoop for me