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I'm about to start my first project and it is relatively big. It will be about 12'' x 24". I'm paranoid about using a hoop because I have read that you shouldn't close it over where you have already stitched because it could fray the threads. And I can't really use scrolls or q-snaps right now because i am living out of a suitcase (I evacuated from my house in Libya) and I don't have much space or weight allowance to spare.

So I am considering stitching in hand. I know some of you do it. Are there any tips on how best to approach this technique? Thanks!

I stitch in hand, mainly because I like to use the sewing method as opposed to the stick and stab method. It is also easier to fasten the threads on the back. If you plan to stick and stab, I recommend a q snap frame, the one I have is not much bigger than a hoop.

To get a good grip of the fabric when stitching in hand, roll it from the bottom left corner so that the backside of the fabric is on the outside of the roll, up to the place where you intend to stitch and hold the roll in your left hand (assuming you are right handed). If your hand leaves any stains, they will be on the back of the work and not show.

If using the sewing method, it can be tricky to get the thread through at the center of the hole where you come up. Pay attention to this, to get nice and even stitches.

You need to be extra careful not to pull the stitches too tight. Check from time to time that your rows and columns of stitches are perpendicular and tug on the fabric if necessary. At least my belief is that this helps. Only once I have had a project come out distorted, but I still hope to rescue it by blocking it when wet (when I get around to it).

Other than that, there is not much different from stitching in a hoop.

the quick snap frames come apart too, which will help with your space issue ...

I use hoops and so far *knocks on wood* haven't had any issue with my stitches being messed up, they do sort of flaten but after they are washed they perk right back up.

I am now wondering about the sewing method LOL

I use the sewing method for tapestry

will give it a go on a small project see what i think

Thank You

I also use hoops and have no problem with damage to stitched areas BUT allways take the hoop off when you aren't stitching.

I use hoops and have never had a problem with stitches fraying or the fabric getting warped and i am really bad about leaving the hoops in for long periods of time. I find it is much easier to maintain the right tension and to get to the back for weaving thread across larger spaces and to finish the thread off. I prefer wooden hoops to plastic so don't know if that makes a difference. I think you will discover after a while what works best for you. I tried "in hand" and couldn't manage it.

Carole

Hmmm, ok. I might give the hoop a try. After all, it is my first project. I should try different things to see what works best for me anyway. Thanks!

I started with stitching in hand, and later, when changed to hoops and then to q-snaps, I found that my stitches are much more even if stitching with the stabbing method and not the sewing motion. It might be just me though.

I saw somewhere a great idea for protecting your stitching in a hoop: put very thin tissue paper on top of the whole fabric, secure the hoop, and then cut the paper in a round where you want to stitch - but the rest will remain under the hoop to protect your stitches there. I hope this makes sense.

Hiya!

Such a helpful thread! You've made me feel braver so thankyou

Starting my new project today, it's erm, pretty big (gulps) and I only have one of those little wooden hoops so I was also umming and aahing if to stitch in hand or hoop it regardless.

I heard that left handed stitchers are better off using the stab technique so I stick with that, not tried the sewing technique yet.

Right, no more delay, time to make Winnie the Pooh come to life (marches off bravely).

Personally, I always stitch in hand, no matter what size the project is that I'm working on. It's a personal choice really; many people here have no issues with using hoops and frames. I don't like hoops because I have to move them too much and they tend to leave marks or stretch stitched areas.... and if I use a looser hoop, it's always slipping. I don't like frames because they are just too cumbersome for me.

I've found ways to stitch large projects in hand that are comfortable for me, and yes, that sometimes having a handful of fabric in my non-stitching hand. What I do to prevent that from compromising stitched areas is that (since I'm right-handed), I always start on the upper or lower right hand corner. That way I don't touch or rub already-stitched areas too much.

Many may not find this manner to their liking, but everyone has their own ways of working.