Embroidery Hoops: How to Hoop Fabric and Which Sets to Buy
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Hand embroidery is much easier with a hoop. It's a simple tool, but a few habits make a difference. Here's DMC's advice, and the hoop sets on Amazon by what their listings say.
How to hoop fabric (DMC's method)
- Loosen the screw and separate the rings.
- Inner ring under, outer ring over. Lay the fabric over the inner ring and press the outer ring down over it.
- Tighten. Tighten the screw and gently pull the fabric taut. DMC's test: it should sound like a drum when you tap it.
DMC's tips
- Why bother: taut fabric makes it easier to get neat, even stitches.
- Stop slipping: wrap the inner hoop with bias binding tape. DMC says it also helps prevent damage to the fabric.
- Don't leave it hooped: leaving work in the hoop for a long time can cause creases that are hard to remove.
- Watch your tension: DMC says loose stitches look limp and stitches that are too tight pucker the fabric.
Hoop sets
We couldn't find an official guideline on which hoop size to use. Follow your pattern if it names a hoop size. A mixed set gives you options. The Biaungdo set has one each of 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 inch bamboo hoops with stainless steel screws, per the listing.
Biaungdo Bamboo Embroidery Hoops, 6 Sizes
- One each of 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 in. hoops, per the listing
- Bamboo with stainless steel screws
- Double-layer, anti-slip design
If you mostly work at one size, a multi-pack of 6 inch hoops is simpler. Caydo sells 12 wooden 6 inch hoops with brass screws, and a 6-pack of bamboo 6 inch hoops that comes with a screw-tightening tool, per the listings.
Caydo 6 in. Embroidery Hoops, 12-Pack
- Twelve 6 in. (15 cm) hoops, per the listing
- Sanded wood with brass adjustment screws
Caydo 6 in. Bamboo Embroidery Hoops, 6-Pack
- Six 6 in. (15 cm) bamboo hoops, per the listing
- Metal screw-tightening tool included
- Stainless steel screws; textured, non-slip surface
New to embroidery? A kit bundles a hoop, floss, needles and a pattern; see our beginner kit guide and how to embroider.
FAQ
How tight should the fabric be?
Drum-tight when tapped, per DMC.
Can I leave it in the hoop?
Not for long. DMC says it can leave creases.
How do I stop slipping?
Wrap the inner ring with bias binding tape.