How to Use a Quilting Hoop
When quilting a small quilt, a quilting hoop may be the best option for hand quilting. Easily stored when not in use and perfectly suited for lap quilting, small quilt projects can be expertly completed when a quilting hoop is used.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Start by selecting the right quilting hoop for your body and style of sewing. Most quilters sew in one direction, towards the body. To determine the right size of hoop for you, take a measurement of the distance from your inside elbow to the second joint of your finger. This length is the largest diameter frame you can use without having to hunch or strain your shoulders or back to reach a section of the quilt.
-
2
Prepare your project for basting by laying the quilt backing face down on the floor and smoothing it out from the center. Do the same with your batting and finally smooth your quilt top, with your quilting pattern traced on the right side, over the two layers.
-
-
3
Pin the layers together working from the center outwards. Be sure not to get pins caught in your carpet or rug as you pin.
-
4
Baste your quilt layers together with cotton thread. A basting stitch is a wide hand-stitch which runs in parallel straight lines and should be easily removed once your project is completed.
-
5
Load the basted quilt into the quilting hoop by placing a section over the inner hoop. Try to keep the grain lines of the fabric as straight as possible to avoid over stretching and warping your hoop or quilt.
-
6
Place the outer hoop over the quilt and press down firmly until the quilt is sandwiched between the inner and outer hoops.
-
7
Adjust the tension of the hoop by turning the fingerbolt on the outer hoop. Beginning quilters generally benefit from a more taut tension, though as you proceed you may find that slightly less tension is preferable.
-
8
Work only in a well-lit area and take plenty of breaks to avoid repetitive motion injuries.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Many quilting hoops come equipped with lap or floor stands. These hoops are generally preferable as it takes the burden off of you to support the quilt while stitching. Look for stands that are easily adjusted to tilt toward and away from you.
