the best frame???

[laura118]

I understand that everyone has there own prefrences to what type of frame to use while cross stitching.
But i just wanted some advice.
I am interested in getting a new frame for future projects. I have been looking at a Elbesse frame that you clip your work to rather than sewing. Are these any good?? Do they keep the tension?
Or if anyone has any suggestions i would appreciate them.
Regards
Laura

[Busy_B]

Sorry, I don't have any experience with that type of frame. The one I use has a slot down the middle of the dowels for you to slide your fabric into. It's fine for when you're working the middle section of the fabric, but when you move to the ends, the middle part gets a little loose. I hope someone else will be able to help you out!!!

[summernight]

Now, I only use q-snap, because for me, tension of fabric it's better.

[Serinde]

Elbesse are fine, but if you are looking at that type of working frame, I would choose a q-snap frame every time. For even more information, there are a couple of threads about hoops and rollers and q-snaps on this forum (although I can never find them!). Have a search around. I suspect the newer members also have thought on the subject...

[Dazbo666]

My small frame has the slotted dowels, the same as Busy_B mentioned.
I also have two large frames which are both sew-on roller frames (and a 7 inch hoop that I tried once but didn't particularly like, so it's got long term accommodation in my stash box).

Sorry I don't have experience of Q-Snap or Elbesse
EDIT : although I may invest in another frame very soon, and I'm very tempted by the Elbesse-type clip frames

[StephanyNJC-UK]

i've just discovered the elbesse frames and they're the best i've had yet (i've been through the sew-on tape and dowel rod types, both ok-ish; the sew-on tape one i find tricky getting the fabric square and not squew wiff, and the dowel ones the fabric goes a bit floppy down the edges, thats after accidently poking holes in the fabric with the small rod trying to get it through the bigger rod ). I've just put the celtic ladies i'm working on on the elbesse ones and haven't had to adjust em yet, except to roll the picture up to the next bit, the tension stayed good. Hope that helps

[Becca]

I've just started using a q snap (well, not that actual brand but an equivalent) and i'm loving it. It gives really good tension, it's so quick and easy to set up, and its small and light enough to hold.

[Dazbo666]

....Sorry I don't have experience of Q-Snap or Elbesse
EDIT : although I may invest in another frame very soon, and I'm very tempted by the Elbesse-type clip frames

Just for the record, I bought an Elbesse frame during my most recent stash purchase, although I haven't had chance to use it yet...

[Mabel Figworthy]

Well you'd better get on with it then, hadn't you, so you can tell us all about it !

[Dazbo666]

I've been concentrating on getting Rudolph finished first

[lacemaker2004]

Oh I did him on my Christmas Tree skirt last year! He's so cute!

[coffee_freak]

i love q snaps..i sing their praises to anyone that would listen..lol

[agi]

I saw some flexi hoops on e-bay - are they any good? Do I understand right that you can use them for stitching and after that for framing and displaying the stitched picture? Does that mean that you can only use them once? I am a bit confused.

[Jilly]

I have put some of my stitching in flexi hoops, they are on the Angel, Gemini and Ebony's Bunny in my gallery.
I would not use them to stitch with, they are quite hard to put on, and rubbing them over the fabric can easily make a mark.
I stitch the piece first, then put it in.
They are handy with circular or oval designs when you don't want to spend money on frames, great for kiddies bedrooms, I just back mine with felt

[agi]

Oh, I see, so they are rather for framing. Thank you, Jilly

[kellyann]

After using hoops and scroll frames I have to admit, like most others here, q snap frames are the way to go. It's all I use anymore.

[SusanF]

Yup me too, I wouldn't use anything other than qsnap type frames now at all.