Everything Embroidery Hoops: Types, Sizes and How to Use Them
Embroidery Hoops are the key to all embroidery projects but choosing the right one might not be straight forward. In this guide, lets talk about the different types of embroidery hoops and the different sizes.
What Is an Embroidery Hoop?
An embroidery hoop is a circle or oval frame made of two rings:
- An inner ring
- An outer ring with a tightening screw
The fabric is placed between the two rings and tightened to hold it taut or tight while you stitch. Keeping your fabric tight helps create even stitches.
Common Types of Embroidery Hoops
There are several types of embroidery hoops.
Wooden Embroidery Hoops
- Traditional and widely used
- Lightweight and affordable
- Ideal for most hand embroidery projects
- Can warp slightly over time, my large one warped badly!
Plastic Embroidery Hoops
- Durable and inexpensive
- Often have a lip or grip to hold fabric better
- Available in many colours and sizes
- Less decorative than wooden hoops
Flexi Hoops
- Made with a rubber inner ring and flexible outer ring
- Hold fabric very tightly
- Popular for displaying finished embroidery
- Not always comfortable for long stitching sessions
Spring Tension Hoops
- Use a metal spring to keep fabric tight
- Great for heavy fabrics
- Can be harder to open and close
Embroidery Hoop Sizes Explained
Embroidery hoops come in many sizes, usually measured in inches or centimetres.
Common sizes include:
- 4–5 inch hoops for small designs
- 6–7 inch hoops for medium projects
- 8–10 inch hoops for larger designs
Choosing a hoop that’s slightly larger than your design makes stitching easier and more comfortable. You don’t have to stitch so close the the edge
How to Use an Embroidery Hoop Correctly
To use your hoop correctly:
- Loosen the screw on the outer ring
- Place the fabric over the inner ring
- Press the outer ring on top
- Tighten the screw
- Pull the fabric edges until it feels taut, like a drum
Re-tighten the hoop occasionally as fabric can loosen while stitching. This happens and its totally normal
Should You Leave Your Fabric in the Hoop?
Leaving fabric in a hoop for long periods can cause creases
I recommend:
- Remove your fabric when not stitching
- Store your project flat
- Re-hoop when you want to continue your work
Can You Display Embroidery in the Hoop?
Yes — I do and it looks great
If you plan to display your piece:
- Use a clean, decorative hoop
- Trim excess fabric neatly at the back
- Secure the fabric with glue or stitching
Flexi hoops are especially popular for display pieces.
Final Thoughts
Embroidery hoops are super important. Choosing the right hoop will make it more comfortable to stitch, if in doubt, choose a hoop slightly larger than your design and if you don’t know which hoop type to go for, go for wooden. Its a classic and bound to not disapoint.
