me again....Frames/looms???

[quirkyk]

Ok...so I have a ton of little hoops as most of my work isn't that big...and the only other piece I've done that was large I did just hand held (the fabric was like a 18 I think) So now I'm onto the world of 25 count evenweave and a piece that will be 23 inches by 14 inches...so I'm thinking a frame might be needed to keep my sanity on this one...I just did a random search for a frame....and found the Stitch E-Z one...that is linked up in case you don't know it...anyone out there used it or have a favorite for big stuff ?

[Jilly]

I am a hoop girl, but I am sure someone will give you good advice on frames

[Pengwenn]

I have both hoops and scroll frames. For the small projects I use the hoops. For the larger ones I use the scroll frames. I think they're wonderful in that you don't have any loose fabric sticking out of the frame like you do with hoops. You also don't have to reposition the fabric as often and when you do it's just a matter of scrolling a couple of rods instead of taking a hoop off and moving that.

If you can get a scroll frame system that will accommodate lots of different sizes (if you play on doing lots of larger projects) and a lap stand or floor stand that uses those scroll frames it will make your stitching so much easier. Both hands will be free to stitch and it will make things go so much faster. If you want to still hand hold the scroll frame while you stitch be prepared for the extra weight and that it will be a little cumbersome to handle sometimes.

[Serinde]

Although the Stitch E-Z looks good, I think the HAED is too big to be accommodated by a lap frame. Suspect you need something much larger: with extra fabric, your HAED will be a minimum of about 29x20inches.
Personally, I'd use something like a tapestry floor frame. An investment, but you will use it again and again. You would have a choice between a floor stand that holds a frame at the centre top, or one that fixes on both sides. That's a matter of personal choice, and there are some awfully good looking alternatives out there. If you were really forward-thinking, there are floor frames that slide to accommodate different size frames.
Wish I could win the lottery...

[mags]

I don't use hoops or frames so sorry I can't offer any advice.

[quirkyk]

I was afraid the ez one wouldn't work for this either but my hubby is handy so I thought about showing him the picture and seeing if he could build me one Of course I'd owe him a ton...but I don't think he'd mind...I just didn't want to have him build it and me hate it...you know

[Rose]

Something to think about with scroll frames is the sides are left loose to flop around, the fabric is only held at the top and bottom. I bought a scroll frame and ended up giving it away as it did not suit my style of stitching.

I have in the last year and 1/2 discovered Q-Snap frames and just love them.

http://www.qsnap.com/needlework_frames.asp" target="_blank

They are just wonderful to work with, even in hand. They come in many diferent sizes also.

[coffee_freak]

i 2nd q snaps..I love them!

[Serinde]

I use Q-snaps as well, but I won't when I start my own HAED. But Rose's point is a very good one.

Quirkyk, have you ever heard of slate frames? On these you mount your fabric top and bottom, and then lace the sides onto the side pieces. See here for what they look like:
http://www.bethrussellneedlepoint.com/frames.htm" target="_blank
and here for a US perspective
http://www.needlenthread.com/2008/07/sl ... ippee.html" target="_blank

[quirkyk]

wow! Thanks ladies...yes I'd seen the q snap things but really don't want to have to roll it if I don't have to...and the biggest one they have would have me do so...as for the Slate frames...I'd seen them...but passed by as they were way out of my price range...(all I'd seen was in Britain) And Holy COW! Talk about a lot of work to get a piece started! I'll def. check into that and see what I can come up with! Thanks for all the links and the info you all!

[quirkyk]

Another cheaper way may be the stretcher bars as well...anyone used these???

[nettie]

I use larger hoops but is a pain with large pieces of material. I have also used a product called grip n stitch. This is by a company called sew it all they have a uk website and go to quite a few craft fairs/shows. Basically you make a frame large enough for your entire piece, slide some grippers around the frame and stretch your fabric over it then there are clips that hook over the edge to hold the fabric onto the grippers better.

I think this is the same priciple as the q snaps but they don't recommend moving your work around on it as they are unsure of the effect the grips would have on stitched areas. Can occassionally be bulky depending on the size of the piece.

[quirkyk]

Thanks everyone for the great ideas!! after reading and the endless time spent looking for tips and tricks...I've ordered...



I can get the rods that will go up to 48 inches so that is plenty big for any project I figure I'll ever do...and I'm thinking of kinda jerry rigging it to work kinda like a Slate frame so the sides will be taught as well... Again thanks to all for the tips and such and in case anyone is looking to get this one I found it at amazon for 30 bucks cheaper than the retail cost