Newbie fabric question

[twinklestitch]

Hi! I'm new to the forum and a cross stitch beginner. I've been doing it for a few years but only recently started taking it seriously. I've just started my first big project and I'm working on 16 count aida. It's very stiff fabric and I'm having some trouble getting it to fit within the hoop evenly and get an even tension.

Should I hand wash it, or buy a wooden or snap frame?

I'd be grateful for any suggestions

Thanks!

[agi]

Hi, welcome to the forum.

I usually stitch Aida in hand, without hoops or frames. Because of its stiffness there is no problem with tension for me. But I am sure the others will be able to give you more advice on hoops and frames.

[crazycat]

i use a snap frame and wouldnt be with out it as you can adjust the tension really easily. welcome to the forum

[Rose]

Aida starts out as a pretty stiff fabric but the longer you work with it the looser it will get. You may have to be very patient and just take some time to get it to set were you want it. I use aida all the time and I love it, but I have to work to get it just right at the biginning of my projects. I also recently have changed over to Q-snaps, they are great. You still will have to take the time to get it set in the frame just right. Some times I think the Q's are harder to first set-up then the hoops used to be. Everything else about the frames is wonderful. If you want you can wash it it would not be a problem and you will wash out the stiffening compound that the manufactureers use.

Good luck and welcome to the forum.

[kellyann]

I agree with crazycat and rose, I my snap frame. I don't use aida anymore but if I remember correctly I did have issues with the stiffness and wooden hoops also. Now, no matter what, all I use is my snap frame.

[twinklestitch]

Thank you all so much for your advice!