How to Find an Embroidery Frame

Embroidery is addictive, and once you get started in the hobby, you'll want to keep challenging yourself with ever more difficult projects. The finished product is worth all of the hard work, because creating a work of fine art is exhilarating. However, as you start on more advanced projects, you'll find that a good embroidery frame becomes more of a need than a luxury.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Figure out the size of your finished project(s). This will determine the size, quality and type of frame that you need to find.

2. Research the different kinds of embroidery frames available, so you'll have a good idea of what your needs are.

3. Go to a craft store or superstore first. For simple and small projects, you can use ring or Q-snap frames. These are easy to find; most craft stores of any type will carry a good selection of ring and Q-snap embroidery frames in a variety of sizes.

4. Check out embroidery or needlework specialty shops. The people who own these shops are usually accomplished needlecrafters themselves, so they can give you good advice on what type of frame would be best for the kind of projects you do. You can usually find stretcher bar frames, scroll frames, and lacing frames in these kinds of stores.

5. Look online if you decide you want a slate frame. These are difficult to find, even in needlework specialty shops, so you will probably have to buy over the Internet if you have your heart set on this kind of embroidery frame.

Tips & Warnings

• Many embroiderers have more than one frame to accommodate their different projects. If you become very serious in the hobby, you may want to find and invest in several types of embroidery frames.
• Even if you ultimately end up buying online, you should wait until you've compared a few different kinds of embroidery frames in person before you make your purchase.
• Be aware that the more you touch the canvas and thread, the more dirt, oil and debris can transfer to your project. Therefore, handheld loops and frames are not a good idea for larger projects, since you want to keep the touching to a minimum. You'll want to find a free-standing frame that allows you to keep your hands off the fabric while you are working the embroidery.

Resources

• K's Creations
• Twining Thread
• Laci's
• Needle N Thread