Top 24 Best Embroidery Hoops Reviews

Embroidery hoops play a crucial part in the embroidery process. No matter if you’re working on a paid or personal project or teaching others how to do embroidery, you will need quality embroidery hoops.

They allow you to place enough and even tension over the fabric so that the final product can be evenly stitched over the cloth surface. You can notice embroidery pieces done without a hoop immediately due to the appearance of puckered fabric over the stitched design. This happens because of uneven tension.

Choosing the best embroidery hoops can be a challenge with so many brands on the market. However, in this article, I will review and compare some of the greatest hoops in hopes to help you choose wisely.

Which Embroidery Hoop is Best?

In order to help you choose the best embroidery hoops for you, I have highlighted a few and listed their main features. However, make sure to read their detailed reviews below the chart before you purchase.

• Best Overall: Caydo 6 Pieces Embroidery Hoops Set
  “Effective, harmless to the body, made of high-quality bamboo, stainless steel screws, lightweight.”
• Best Budget: Caydo 12 Pieces Bamboo Embroidery Hoops
  “Versatile, harmless, affordable, durable, made of environmentally friendly material, multipurpose use.”
• Best for Beginners: Clover Embroidery Hoops
  “It doesn’t catch the thread while working, great for thin fabrics, the best hoop for hand embroidery.”
• Best for Professionals: Morgan Embroidery Hoops
  “Portable, plastic, easy to assemble and unassemble, multipurpose use, no-slip surface, lightweight.”
• Best for Cross-stitch: Joybest 4 Pcs Embroidery Hoops Wood
  “A wide selection of sizes, high-quality, durable, great resistance to pressure, ideal for cross-stitch art.”
• Best for Brother: SewTech 3-Piece Embroidery Hoops Set
  “A great set of hoops for Brother machines, a clear and green-ink grid for accurate alignment, versatile.”
• Best for Babylock: Sew Tech Embroidery Hoops
  “Super versatile, durable, compatible with Babylock machines, accurate and strong hoop with markings.”
• Best Wooden: Similane 5 Pieces Embroidery Hoops Bamboo
  “Lightweight, harmless, high-quality bamboo hoops, perfect choice for beginners, stainless steel screws.”
• Best Plastic: Similane 6 Pieces Plastic Embroidery Hoops
  “Made of high-quality plastic, colorful set of hoops, upgraded adjustable screw, great for adults and kids.
• Best with Lap Stand: Morgan Lap Stand Combo Embroidery Hoops
  “Easy to assemble and unassemble, portable, lightweight, great for the classroom, storage or traveling.”
• Best Mini: INSANY Small Ring Embroidery Hoops
  “Mini hoops made of natural wood, natural color, and smooth surface, makes a perfect gift for crafters.”
• Best for Thick Material: Darice Quilt Embroidery Hoop Wood
  “Versatile, time saver when working on large projects, lightweight but strong enough not to bend.”
• Best Quality: Mumusuki Embroidery Stand Hoop Wood
  “Non-toxic, stable, environmentally friendly, adjustable height from 41 to 52cm, 360 degrees rotating.”
• Best Stand: Needlework Table and Lap Hands-Free Stand Embroidery Frame
  “Well-polished frame, embroidery hoop with stand, multipurpose use, easy to use and assemble, stable.”

Best Embroidery Hoop Brand

There are many brands for embroidery hoops out there but you can’t trust all of them. This is a shortlist of brands that you can trust. And you can find their best-selling products in the comparison chart below.

• Clover
• Similane
• F.A. Edmonds
• Susan Bates
• Embroidex
• Sew Tech
• Q-Snap
• Claydo
• Darice

24 Best Embroidery Hoops Comparison Chart 2021

In this article, I will present some of the best embroidery hoops available on the market. Scroll down to compare their most important features. The features will help you choose the right set of hoops for you.

Best Embroidery Hoops Reviews 2021

The embroidery hoops I have listed below have undeniable global popularity because of durability and flexibility. However, make sure to check their main pros and cons before you make your final purchase.

Caydo 6 Pieces Embroidery Hoop Set Bamboo

(Best Overall)

Caydo set includes 6 pieces of embroidery hoop made of bamboo. They’re harmless to the body. Also, they come in different sizes including 4 inch (10cm), 5 inch (13cm), 7 inch (17cm), 8 inch (20cm), 9 inch (23cm) and 10 inch (26cm). They have stainless steel screws with anti-skid embossed texture to fix your fabric good. If you want lightweight, harmless, beautiful and effective cross stitch hoops, order this set.

Caydo 12 Pieces 3 Inch Bamboo Embroidery Hoops

(Best Budget Embroidery Hoops)

This is another set by Caydo that is worth buying because it offers 12 embroidery hoops. Each one is 3 inches (8cm) and makes the ideal tool to teach kids how to do embroidery. Made of environmental and durable material, these hoops are harmless to the body. Also, they come with a brass adjustment screw.

The screw can tighten when necessary to maintain your fabric as tight as a drum. What I like most about it is that it has multipurpose use. Except for quilting, embroidery, and needlecraft, you can also use it for wedding decorations, small ornaments, gifts, Christmas ornaments, wall decoration, garlands, and so on.

Similane 5 Pieces Embroidery Hoops Bamboo

(Best Wooden Embroidery Hoops)

This set by Similane includes bamboo embroidery hoops in different sizes including 5.1 inch (13cm), 7 inch (17cm), 7.9 inch (20cm), 9 inch (23cm) and 10.2 inch (26cm). They’re made of high-quality bamboo which makes them light and harmless to your body. They also have upgraded stainless steel screws that make them easy to operate. It is the perfect set of hoops for cross-stitch, handcraft, and embroidery.

Sew Tech Embroidery Hoops for Brother and Babylock

(Best Embroidery Hoops for Babylock)

If you’re looking for a hoop that works with Babylock and Brother units, look no further than this one. It works with SE1900, PE770, PE700, PE700II, PE750, PE750D, PE780D, PE800, PE8200, PE810L, 700Ell 750E 1000 1200 1250, Brother PC8500 PC6500 embroidery models and some Babylock embroidery machines.

This hoop is accurate and strong. It has clear markings for easy reference and adjustable metal screws to work with a wide range of fabric. It is the ideal replacement of the old hoops. Now, let’s review the cons.

Similane 6 Pieces Plastic Embroidery Hoops

(Best Plastic Embroidery Hoops)

This set by Similane includes 6 plastic embroidery hoops in different sizes including 10.2 inch (26cm), 9 inch (22.8cm), 7.67 inch (19.5cm), 6 inch (15.3cm) ,4.7 inch (12cm), and 3.4 inch (8.6cm).

The best part is that you will get orange, green, purple, red, pink, and blue hoops created of durable, high-quality plastic.

Caydo 5 Pieces Plastic Embroidery Hoops

(Best Hand Embroidery Hoops)

Another colorful set that will impress you is this one. It includes 5 pieces of plastic embroidery hoops in vibrant colors and various sizes including 4.8 inch (12.1cm), 6.1 inch (15.5cm), 7.6 inch (19.4cm), 9.1 inch (23.2cm) and 10.4 inch (26.4cm). They’re very strong, stable, durable, and feel comfortable in the hand.

You will get purple, rose red, orange and blue hoops that are easy to use thanks to the brass adjustment screw that you can tighten when needed in order to keep your fabric as tight as a drum. The set makes a great gift for the crafty person in your family. It’s also the perfect choice for absolute beginners and kids.

Darice QUILT HOOP WOOD 23IN

(Best Embroidery Hoops for Thick Material)

Darice quilt hoop will hold your fabric tight like no other hoop. It is a 23-inch wood quilting hoop made to keep fabrics tight when embroidering, cross-stitching, quilting, and more. It is perfect for bulky, large projects. However, it is lightweight and can easily be painted or stained to match the colors of projects.

I personally recommend this hoop because it saves time when working on larger projects. The structure is strong enough not to twist, shift, or bend, however, it’s light enough to hold comfortably. The fastener can be adjusted based on the thickness of your material. It is a versatile hoop suitable for many projects.

Embroidex Large Hoop for Brother

If you’re looking for a large hoop for Brother, look no further than this one. It is a similar generic hoop to the SA434. This tool will work with SE270D, 500D, PE-270D, PE-300S, PE-400D, HE-120, 900D, SE350, HE-240, LB6770 PRW, 950D, SE400, LB6770, LB6800PRW, PE500, SB7050E, HE1, SB7500, PE540D, and so on.

You don’t have to reposition your fabric when working with this hoop. The repositioning feature allows you to move the hooped fabric to an extra overlapping section. It has a 5-inch x 7-inch embroidery area.

Embroidex Cap/Hat Hoop

(Best Embroidery Hoops for Hats)

If you’re looking for the best embroidery hoop for hats, look no further than this one. The Embroidex cap and hat hoop are one of the best-selling hoops in the market. It is made of plastic.

However, it’s very durable and stable. No matter if you have never used a hoop for hats before, you will find this one super easy to use. However, make sure to check the main pros and cons before you make your final purchase.

Joybest 4 Pcs Embroidery Hoops Wood

(Best Embroidery Hoop for Cross Stitch)

This set by Joybest includes 4 different sizes of cross stitch hoops including 3.93 inch (S), 5.51 inch (M), 6.69 inches (L) and 7.48 inch (oval hoop). They’re made of durable, strong, and flexible rubber which has great resistance to pressure. The heavy-duty design and anti-skid texture will make your projects easier.

If you want hoops that can fix your fabric very smoothly and tightly with a non-adjustable hanging brass ring, buy this set today. They’re perfect for displaying and hanging cross-stitch art or wall decorations. It makes the perfect gift for crafters. However, make sure to check the pros and cons before you purchase.

Embroidex Set of 4 Hoops for Brother

If you want a set of 4 high-quality generic hoops for your Brother or Babylock embroidery machine, get this baby today. It includes a Jumbo hoop (5-inch x 12 inches), a large hoop (5-inch x 7 inches), medium hoop (4-inch x 4 inches), and an oval pocket hoop (1 1/2 inch x 2 inches). Each hoop includes a template. They’re super easy to use. However, before you buy, make sure to check the main pros and cons below.

SewTech 3-Piece Embroidery Hoop Set for Brother Embroidery Machines

(Best Embroidery Hoops for Brother Machines)

This is another great choice for those looking for a hoop set for Brother embroidery units. It includes 3 hoops including 2-inch x 1.5 inch (S), 4-inch x 4 inches (M), and 6.75-inch x 4 inches (L). It is compatible with PE500, LB6800, SE270D, SE350, SE400, PE300S, PE400D PE500, LB6770, LB-6800PRW, and so on.

If you order this top-rated set, you will also get a clear, green-ink grid for accurate alignment. However, make sure to check the summarized pros and cons of this great set before you make your final purchase.

INSANY Small Ring Embroidery Hoops Mini

(Best Mini Embroidery Hoop)

This set of embroidery hoops includes 8 mini tools made of natural wood. They have a natural color and smooth surface without thorns which makes them reliable and safe. If you’re looking for the perfect tool for necklace ornament, this is the one. You will get round & oval embroidery hoops that are easy to use.

It is the ideal gift for passionate crafters that includes 5.7cm, 3.5cm, 2.5cm (2pcs), the oval wood hoops have 4 types, 7cm x 3.4cm, 5.1cm x 2.2cm, 6.3cm x 4.2cm, 4.5cm x 2.9cm. Now, let’s check out the cons.

Clover 7 Inch Embroidery Stitching Tool Hoop

(Best Embroidery Hoops for Beginners)

If you’re looking for the perfect hoop for hand embroidery, look no further than Clover 7 inch (18cm). It works great with thinner fabrics. I personally recommend this hoop because it is one of the best hoops I have ever used. It keeps the fabric really well thanks to the mechanism for tightening and loosening the outer ring. Also, it doesn’t catch the thread while working. It is costly but definitely well worth the cost.

Hoop-La 14401.008 Embroidery Hoop

This hoop by Susan Bates is a deluxe embroidery hoop with super-grip-lip. It is made to keep consistent tension without snagging or distorting your threads or fabrics. It is super durable and flexible and makes it easier for the needle to go through the fabric, allowing your stitches to form evenly. It is a great hoop for all hand embroidery, quilting, cross-stitch, or any needlecraft needs. You can buy it in the 8-inch size.

Susan Bates Hoop-La 6 inch Embroidery Hoop

Susan Bates Deluxe embroidery hoop has a super-grip-lip and makes the perfect tool for quilting, cross-stitch, all hand embroidery, or any needlecraft needs. It is designed to keep consistent tension without snagging or distorting your threads or fabrics. It is durable and flexible and makes it easier for the needle to go through the fabric, allowing the stitches to form evenly. You can purchase this one in a 6-inch size.

Darice Bulk Buy DIY Wooden Embroidery Hoops Round

If you’re looking for wooden embroidery hoops in 6-inch size, look no further than this set. These tools have L brackets to allow you to work with any desired fabric thickness. They also give even tension on all fabric edges and make the perfect tool for needlecraft, embroidery, and quilting needs. I like these tools because they’re cute and durable. They’re also perfect for creating small gifts and Christmas ornaments.

Morgan 7-Inch & 10-Inch Combo Lap Stand Hoops

(Embroidery Hoop with Lap Stand)

Morgan combo lap stand features a groove no-slip hoop organization and a special tongue that keeps your material tight while working. They are designed to elevate the project hoop over the lap while the special feature is that it is collapsible. Each stand has 2 plastic hoops held together by 3 supporting rods which space the hoops 4-1/2 inch apart. Just invert the lap stand to use either size embroidery hoop.

Needlework Table and Lap Hands-Free Stand Embroidery Frame

(Best Embroidery Hoop Stand)

Needlework table and laps hands-free stand embroidery frame is made of natural organic beech wood. It is well-polished and smooth without any roughness which makes it harmless to your body and hands.

It is the perfect tool for cross-stitch, embroidery, handcraft, quilt, crewel, and other needle art crafts. It is super easy to fix canvas at the start of work with the help of plastic holders. It is also easy to remove it after completing your project. Also, the fabric does not require continuous adjustments to remain tight.

The frame rotates 360 degrees, so you can easily roll your work if necessary. Extra tools are not needed for assembly. Now, let’s check out the summarized pros and cons of this product before you purchase it.

SewTech Extra Large 6×10 Embroidery Hoop

The SewTech extra-large embroidery hoop is perfect for large projects. It has a large embroidery area of 6.25 inches x 10.5 inches. It also has an adjustment screw to help you secure a broad variety of fabrics. A clear grid is included for accurate alignment. This hoop is the perfect replacement for the SA441 hoop. It is a generic hoop that will serve you for years. However, check the pros and cons before you purchase it.

Morgan Products Lap Stand Combo 7″ And 9″ Hoops

(Best Embroidery Hoops for Professionals)

If you’re looking for a set of lightweight, portable and easy to use hoops, look no further than this one. It includes 7 inch and 9-inch hoops that are easy to assemble and unassemble and can be used individually as well. Both hoops have a no-slip surface and make the ideal tools for traveling, classroom, and storage.

SUPVOX 10pcs Embroidery Hoop Mini

SUPVOX includes 10 pieces of mini embroidery hoops that can be used to fix embroidered cloth. They can also be used as gift jewelry. Each wooden cross-stitch holder in this set can fix your fabric tightly and smoothly, and make your embroidery easier. These hoops can be used for needlework, embroidery, and quilting. However, it can also be used for making wall-decorations. Now, let’s review the pros and cons.

Mumusuki Embroidery Stand Hoop Wood Embroidery

Mumusuki embroidery stand hoop is made of high-quality wooden material. It is durable, tough, stable, non-toxic, safe, and environmentally friendly. The best part? It has an adjustable height from 41 – 52cm. The hoop can 360 degrees rotating. It is ideal for small tasks as it leaves hands free to work the stitches.

Easy to install and clean, this hoop will become your favorite crafting tool. If you’re looking for a durable, versatile and flexible hoop, look no further than this baby. Now, let’s summarize the main pros and cons.

YEQIN Sewing Embroidery Machine Hoop

(Best Quality Embroidery Hoops)

YEQIN sewing embroidery machine hoop is another Brother hoop created to impress you. It is excellent for monogramming cuffs, collars, baby clothing, and other small items. The embroidery area is 1.5-inch x 2 inches. It has an adjustment screw for securing many fabrics and a clear grid for accurate alignment. If you want a generic hoop that works as a perfect substitute for the Brother SA431 hoop, order it today.

Best Place to Buy Embroidery Hoops

If this is your first time shopping for embroidery hoops, you’re probably wondering what’s the best place to buy embroidery hoops. Well, I always recommend shopping online. You have more options to choose from. However, if online shopping isn’t your thing, you can do it the traditional way and visit local stores.

But first, open your browser and type something like: “ the best place to buy embroidery hoops”. Check the results and write down the working hours of local stores. Vist when you have time. Use this map too.

What Are Embroidery Hoops?

Embroidery hoops represent 2 hoops. One fits inside the other used to stretch and keep fabrics intact.

The larger one has a tightening piece that allows you to clamp the two pieces together, and stretch your fabric. Usually, embroidery hoops are made of wood. However, you can also find plastic and metal ones.

As the name of the tools suggests, they’re mostly used for embroidery. However, sewers, quilters, and artists have been known to use embroidery hoops. You can choose from different types of embroidery hoops, including hand-held, quilting, spring tension, ballpoint painting, and machine embroidery hoops.

Types

Handheld hoops usually go in size from 4 inches to 12 inches. They’re portable, lightweight, affordable, and small. Quilting hoops, on the other hand, are 12 inches or larger. They’re used to hand quilt batting, the top, and quilt back together. Spring tension hoops don’t leave marks on your fabric. Plastic rings are made of two parts, a metal ring with a spring adjustment on it and a plastic ring. They’re lightweight.

Ballpoint painting is metal with a metal lip that secures your hand from paint. It is used for projects that include painting on the cloth and need the cloth to lay smooth & flat. Machine embroidery hoops keep the fabric from bunching during machine embroidery. But make sure to buy the right hoop for your unit.

Stands

The floor stand is helpful when you need your hands in sewing. Stands make the perfect tool for large items like rugs, blankets, and quilts. They require assembly and have an adjustable height.

Many stands come with a detachable hoop for smaller projects. Some of them are collapsible or foldable for storage.

Materials

You can choose between wood and plastic hoops. Wood hoops are portable, lightweight, and provide even tension super easily. Plastic embroidery hoops, on the other hand, can be found in the traditional style with a tension screw at the outer hoop or spring tension form with a metal ring that adjusts inside the outer ring. Which embroidery hoop you select depends on your project and personal preferences.

Sizes

Embroidery hoops come in different sizes from super small to large. However, for everyday embroidery, I would recommend a 5 to 7-inch diameter hoop. Special projects may need a smaller or larger hoop. For instance, making a handkerchief may need a small hoop because it is a small piece of material. Quilts, on the other hand, require much larger hoops. Which size you choose depends on your projects and needs.

Shapes

You can choose from round, square, and oval embroidery hoops. Round hoops are most used because they’re easy to hold and come in different sizes. Oval hoops are perfect for quilting projects and wider embroidery, but they don’t come in different sizes. Square hoops are made for machine embroidering.

What Are Embroidery Hoops Used for?

Embroidery hoops represent traditional tools used for securing fabric to make lovely patterns, stitches, and embellishments. The classic versions of these hoops are made from bone material or ivory, however today, they’re made of wood and plastic materials. The modern hoops are more flexible and easy to use.

If you’re wondering what makes an embroidery hoop stable, it is the built-in tightening screws that offer support and keep the fabric taut. Modern hoops are adjustable and can meet the needs of every crafter.

How to Choose the Right Embroidery Hoops?

When choosing the right embroidery hoops, there are certain features you should keep in mind, such as the following:

Size

Embroidery hoops usually have an outer and inner ring for securing the fabric in place while also giving it tension. You can determine an embroidery hoop’s size by the inner diameter of the outer hoop. The size you select depends on your project. Your fabric should fit nicely in it, with a little overhang on the edges.

It is also very important to select a hoop that feels comfortable in the hand. Undersized/oversized hoops can be super uncomfortable to hold. Also, if you choose the wrong size, you will make your work harder.

Shape

Round hoops are most common. However, you can also choose square hoops with rounded edges and corners. However, the best hoops are selected based on your projects, personal preferences, and needs.

Material

Embroidery hoops can be made of plastic and wood (usually bamboo). You can also find metallic hoops. However, they’re not very common because of their heaviness. Wooden hoops are preferred because of the grip and the quality you get when using them. However, they also have flaws. Very tight adjustments can break the inner rim. Plastic hoops are durable and don’t break easily. But they can be super slippery.

Weight

Embroidery hoops should be lightweight, comfortable in hand, and portable. Plastic and wooden hoops are usually lightweight. However, you can’t say the same about metallic hoops. They’re heavyweight and expensive. They can hold tight adjustments but come at a higher price. That is why they’re not common.

Packing accessories

You should choose a set of embroidery hoops with complements that will meet your needs. Some sets come with different sized hoops, some have similar-sized hoops, and others have threads and needles to get you started quickly. Choose the set that includes promising tools that can make your project easier.

How to Use Embroidery Hoops?

Using embroidery hoops is super easy. All you have to do is follow these steps and you will do just fine.

Step 1: Match the fabric with the hoop. However, make sure to have enough allowance to fit the fabric on the embroidery hoop. This will make sure that the fabric will not crumble while making the patching.

Step 2: The hoop has two layers in which you need to put the fabric on the inner hoop and put the outer hoop on top of the inner hoop. After, adjust the screws to get the ideal tight. When everything is set and done, you can start making your stitches. Don’t forget to prep for the backing to hide the visible stitches.

Are Embroidery Hoops Reusable?

Embroidery hoops are reusable unless you gift them to someone or turn them into ornaments and wall decorations. This detailed guide has all the information that you need to know about embroidery hoops.

Best Way to Hang Embroidery Hoops

There are many ways to hand embroidery hoops, however, basically, the plan is to get your embroidery into a position where you can hang the embroidery hoop on the wall. To start, I paint my hoop and then add some sealer. Once the hoop is dry, I place my completed embroidery inside and complete the back.

As you can see, I did my embroidery via the fabric, and a layer of batting because I always prefer a quilt look. I trimmed the excess parts, leaving about an inch of batting and fabric. With a large running stitch, I patched around the edge and gathered it in. After, from the same fabric, I created a yo-yo that was big enough to cover the opening in the back of the hoop. Lastly, I added a strip of fabric to act as a hanger.

Best Way to Clean Embroidery Hoops

I often notice comments by people asking how to clean their embroidery hoops. It’s simple. Don’t spray adhesives in it. You can clean it with a non-acetone nail polish remover and a cotton ball.

Use the cotton ball to wipe off the dirt. You can also use warm water and soap and wash your hoop by hand. However, I still believe that prevention is the best practice. Some people suggest aftershave lotion for cleaning too.

Best Fabric for Embroidery Hoops

Floss usually gets the fame in hand embroidery. However, the material that floss is stitched on is just as important to the completed look. The proper background material will provide support and present your beautiful stitching. However, if you choose the wrong type, you can pucker, stretch or distort your work.

To avoid this, I have prepared some key things you need to pay attention to. Here is how to choose and prepare the best foundation material for your floss.

1. Thread Count

Thread count is important in embroidery fabric. Materials with thread counts under 150, such as cotton, muslin, flour sack, linen, Osnaburg, or Aida make no problem when pulling a needle and thread through.

2. Always Choose Natural

Always look for fabrics made of natural materials like linen, silk, cotton, wool or a combination of these. They are soft but sturdy enough to provide support to decorative stitching. Also, their fibers rin vertically and horizontally, which allows your needle to easily move through which is not the case with synthetics.

3. Choose Kona for Quilting

If you’re making a quilt by hand, choose Kona. You can never go wrong with this fabric. It is lightweight and has a 120 thread count. It is also less transparent than other types of cotton, so your stitches won’t show through. Another tip is pre-washing your fabric to avoid puckering. This will tighten up the weave.

It will also pre-shrink the fabric which matters if you want to put your embroidery onto a shirt, quilt, or other fabric that can get washed. Another important tip is using a stabilizer. If you’re embroidering with buttons, beads, or other accents, you will need something strong that can withstand heavier stitching.

Best Embroidery Hoop Size

People always ask what is the best embroidery hoop size. The answer is pretty simple and obvious. It is the size that feels right to you. If you’re not happy and comfortable with your hoop, you’ve selected the wrong size. Choosing the wrong size will prevent you from enjoying your patching. It is not necessary to choose a large hoop unless you’re making bead embroidery. A smaller hoop is always easier to handle.

Also, small hoops than to keep material more tightly than large hoops. Embroidery hoops are generally made in sizes from 4 to 12-inch in diameter. However, sizes 5, 6, and 8 are most common among users.

How Are Embroidery Hoops Measured?

Embroidery hoops have two pieces. The first is the outer ring which has a screw or spring for tightening. And the second is the inner ring that fits inside of it. Round hoops can be found in different sizes starting from 3 to 14 inches in diameter. They’re the most common hoops. But which shape and size you choose depends on your project. Keep in mind that the hoop should fit around your fabric with some overhang.

Embroidery Hoop Wood vs. Plastic

Embroidery hoops made of bamboo or wood have a smoother inner hoop. Sometimes, that part of the hoop requires a little extra padding. This is why people suggest wrapping it with twill tape for a snugger fit. Quality is important when it comes to wooden hoops, so I advise against buying the cheapest one on the market. Plastic hoops usually have a lip on the inside where the inner ring locks into the outer hoop.

This allows the fabric to be kept tight for hand embroidery projects. Plastic hoops are strong and durable enough to handle heavier projects. However, metal hoops are even stronger but not that common. They are heavyweight and come at a higher price. That is why they’re not the most preferred among crafters.

What is the Difference Between a Quilting Hoop and an Embroidery Hoop?

Quilting hoops are larger than embroidery hoops. Also, they can support thicker fabrics, unlike most embroidery hoops. A square hoop or Q-Snap frame usually used for hand quilting is created of PVC and has outer clips that adjust smoothly around each of the four edges of your project, leaving the corners bare. Quilting hoops are also deeper and made of thicker wood to hold a heavy quilt without breaking.

Quilting hoops are available in sizes 10 to 20 inches in diameter while embroidery hoops come in sizes 3 to 14 inches in diameter but the perfect size and shape you select depends on your projects and needs.

Should I Use a Hoop for Cross Stitch?

If you prefer hoops and think that your projects look more professional when you use them, then keep using them. I strongly recommend trying not using them for once. I usually avoid hoops for cross stitch.

Canvas work, pulled work & cutwork, and needlepoint needs tension but blackwork, cross-stitch, and surface work don’t require the tension of a hoop. You can gain benefits if you avoid embroidery hoops.

The first is you don’t have to move the hoop at all times for large pieces and risk damaging your stitches.

The second benefit is not getting hoop marks. They’re difficult to iron out, so I consider this as a benefit.

You can also easily manipulate your fabric in terms of thread and needle placement. There are also cons of not using a hoop. The first one is always washing your hands before patching. This is also a good habit even if you’re using a hoop. The second disadvantage is ironing your project when you’re done. You can prevent this by not folding your fabric. Roll it instead.

FAQ

Final Thoughts

Your embroidery hoop can make or break your project. Choosing a hoop blindly might bring you a lot of issues, and in the end, ruin your hard work. The many types of hoops on the market make it hard to pick the right one. The shape and size of hoop that select depends on your project and personal preferences.

If you want embroidery hoops for cross-stitch, Joybest 4 Pcs Embroidery Hoops Wood is the best choice for you. If you’re searching for a hoop for your Brother or Babylock unit, Sew Tech Embroidery Hoops for Brother and Babylock is the item you need. However, if you want something more affordable, buy Caydo 12 Pieces 3 Inch Bamboo Embroidery Hoops. Hopefully, my article will help you make a smart decision.