Scroll Frames

[ladykara]

Ok, so my pattern is pretty big, and I was really hating how the loops smushed the stitches on it. I wanted to look into a scroll frame. I love how it looks on there, but my problem is that it is so awkward. Anyone have any tips on how to hold it? I have gotten into trouble with knots so far b/c I can't hold the thread as it comes out or goes into the hole. I don't like just holding the fabric w/o a loop, it just gets so jumbled for me. Any suggestions?

[freelady]

No, afraid I don't have any suggestions for you. The problem you described is the reason I started doing cross stitch after doing tapestry on a scroll frame. I find using hoops so much easier that the big frame.

I hope someone can give some useful hints though.

[Rose]

Sorry I am no help, I tried the frames and did not like the way it lefty the sides loose. So I gave my frame away and I us either hoop or q-snap.

[carolyn61]

Ladykara,
I've only just switched from the scroll frames to the Q-Snaps, so here's how I did it. If I was stitching at the dining room table then I would position the sides of the frame so that one or both of the sides would rest their weight on the table edge and the bottom of the frame would rest on my stomach. That way my hands were free to pull thread through my fingers at the back and poke in at the front. When we moved to this house and my son's room became free, I moved a big soft cushy chair with an ottoman right in front of the window that gave me the most wonderful daylight. So then I just pulled my legs up and used my knee (or knees) to rest the top of the frame and the frame bottom on my stomach. Sometimes I steady the frame with one hand if needed. These positions worked very well for me when stitching a large piece (as the wood frames get heavy).
I'm sorry I'm not explaining this well. I would suggest finding a comfortable place and just start moving the frame around until it feels right. I really enjoy my big overstuffed chair and having my "own" stitching room. I can listen to muscic or radio and I can shut the door and stitch all night without bothering my DH with the lights and such. I can put small pillows at my back if needed or warm heating pad on my neck if the muscles gets too tight (marathon stitching seems to do that). I hope you find a way that is agreeable with you. Makes the stitching go much nicer if you are comfortable all the way around. Good luck.

[Serinde]

Another suggestion if you are using a frame is to invest in a floor stand. They don't have to be expensive, but what a difference it makes when you are using either hoops or frames. Don't know what I'd do without mine.

[coffee_freak]

i agree..if you are going to use a scroll..either a lap stand or sitting at a table and resting it on the edge and your stomach is what I would do..

i use qsnaps and do the same..
but usually i just stitch one handed

[Dazbo666]

I have three different scroll frames for various sized projects, and find them very easy to work with. (I also have a 7" hoop, which has only been used for half of one project before getting put to one side).

When using the larger scroll frames, I tend to put the lower scroll bar into the crook of my arms and/or rest the frame on my tum (so, no shortage of opportunities there ).
My left arm supports the frame from underneath, and guides the thread at the back, and my right hand guides the needle.

I also have a floor stand which was bought 2nd hand with a spare scroll frame, but I find my existing technique comfortable enough for long sessions, so the floor stand still remains unused.

Personally, I've found that a lot of stitching technique and position etc is down to personal preference. I'd suggest trying a few different methods while stitching some basic patterns first. That way you can concentrate on technique without risking unneccessary errors on a more complicated design.
Basically it's down to trial and error to get comfortable with the basics first, so that eventually the basics become a subconscious act.

(....I'm not sure I'm making myself clear here )

[ladykara]

Hehe, ty for the info. I might give it another go on a different pattern

[lacemaker2004]

I would suggest that you try or at least personally see a floor or lap stand before investing in it. I bought two lap stands and then finally my husband bought me a floor stand for Christmas two years ago. The first lap stand I think finally got thrown out. It was real cheap. It was the kind that had a J shaped piece that slipped under your legs. The height didn't adjust well and it really only worked on a hardish chair seat. The other is a nice sturdy piece. It has two legs that go down on either side of your lap but it is a bit difficult when not used on a table. The floor stand is the best but I "tested" a bunch and did a lot of research before investing the money. They can be very expensive.

[shadowkxv]

What kind of stand did you choose? I've been looking for a good one without much luck.