Go Back  Quiltingboard Forums >
  • Main
  • Hand Quilting With Hoop >
  • Hand Quilting With Hoop

  • Hand Quilting With Hoop

    Thread Tools
     
    Old 04-30-2012, 01:51 PM
      #1  
    Member
    Thread Starter
     
    Join Date: Apr 2012
    Posts: 13
    Default Hand Quilting With Hoop

    Hi, y'all! I'm new to quilting, and am completely self-taught. I'm attempting my first hand-quilted quilt. I can't seem to get used to the large hoops. My question is- if you've basted well, why do you need the hoop? Thanks!
    Themisnike is offline  
    Old 04-30-2012, 02:13 PM
      #2  
    Senior Member
     
    Hinterland's Avatar
     
    Join Date: Oct 2009
    Location: Hudson Valley, NY
    Posts: 939
    Default

    Actually, you don't need a hoop. I find it helps, but lots of other quilters don't care for it.

    It's easier to quilt if you don't pull the quilt tight in the hoop. If that doesn't help, feel free to take the quilt out and hand quilt without it. I guarantee the quilt police will not show up at your door.

    Janet
    Hinterland is offline  
    Old 04-30-2012, 02:31 PM
      #3  
    Member
    Thread Starter
     
    Join Date: Apr 2012
    Posts: 13
    Default

    Thank you do much, Janet! I wanted to ask the experts before I found out something the hard way!
    Themisnike is offline  
    Old 04-30-2012, 03:20 PM
      #4  
    Senior Member
     
    Hinterland's Avatar
     
    Join Date: Oct 2009
    Location: Hudson Valley, NY
    Posts: 939
    Default

    To be honest, for me it's harder to quilt without the hoop. But there are many quilters here who don't use a hoop, and there are many "famous" quilters who don't, either. The important thing is that you enjoy what you're doing and get the results you want. When the quilt is done and bound, no one will be able to tell whether you used a hoop or not.

    Janet
    Hinterland is offline  
    Old 04-30-2012, 07:18 PM
      #5  
    Super Member
     
    Join Date: Oct 2010
    Location: IN
    Posts: 1,153
    Default

    I've never been able to get used to using a hoop or frame. I baste well and quilt without. It's all in what's comfortable for YOU. I congratulate you for going for it. Happy Quilting!!
    Val in IN is offline  
    Old 04-30-2012, 07:28 PM
      #6  
    Super Member
     
    Pat625's Avatar
     
    Join Date: Mar 2012
    Location: North Pole
    Posts: 1,643
    Default

    I use a PVC frame, but loosen it up a little to be able to maneuver the needle
    Pat625 is offline  
    Old 04-30-2012, 09:08 PM
      #7  
    Member
    Thread Starter
     
    Join Date: Apr 2012
    Posts: 13
    Default

    I'm so glad to know I can do without! Oh, I'm just THRILLED to find this forum and be able to ask you experts for your opinions! So, here is another question- after a day of practice, I'm consistently getting 8-10 stitches per inch (I know- nothing to write home about, but I'm really happy!), but over appliqué areas (needle-turned) and bulky seam allowance areas, it's more like 5-6. Any suggestions (short of avoidance of the areas)?
    Themisnike is offline  
    Old 04-30-2012, 09:45 PM
      #8  
    Senior Member
     
    QuiltingCrazie's Avatar
     
    Join Date: Oct 2011
    Location: Las Cruces, NM
    Posts: 751
    Default

    Consistancy with stitch length is more important than how many stitches you get. it's hard to catch the back on bulky seams unless you stap stitch one by one. 8-10 i say great job I got three or four when I first started! For small projects or details I use a hoop just to control the fabric. I always start quilts layed out on a table and after basteing I quilt with no frame on the table. i have tried just sitting on the couch and quilting and I personally have less control and don't catch wrinkles as well as when it's layed flat. I still have to adjust ins at times when the back is deciding it wants to wrinkle. I may get one or two wrinkles during a quilt that I have to readjust pins. Just make sure your always feeling the back and you'll be fine. It's all in what works for you best!! Happy Quilting
    QuiltingCrazie is offline  
    Old 04-30-2012, 10:07 PM
      #9  
    Member
    Thread Starter
     
    Join Date: Apr 2012
    Posts: 13
    Default

    Thanks, Rachel! By the way, I'm jealous that you are in Germany! My dream is to visit one day!!
    Themisnike is offline  
    Old 05-01-2012, 02:51 AM
      #10  
    Senior Member
     
    Join Date: May 2010
    Location: Stanley NC
    Posts: 981
    Default

    I also quilt without a hoop or frame. I found them both awkward and I wasn't enjoying the process. However, I do have a PVC frame from JoAnn's. I secure three sides and leave the side next to me free from the frame. Then, I have most of the area in my lap. It works because I pin, pin, pin to secure the backing. As I go along, I adjust the tightness as needed. Just do whatever you need to do to enjoy the process. Anything stressful takes away from the enjoyment.
    teddysmom is offline  
    Related Topics
    Thread
    Thread Starter
    Forum
    Replies
    Last Post
    vlposey
    Main
    5
    10-23-2010 06:44 AM
    Sandra-P
    Main
    7
    07-22-2010 08:19 AM
    Simple Pleasure
    Main
    37
    05-09-2010 06:41 AM
    dcurvey
    Main
    8
    08-13-2007 09:07 AM

    Posting Rules
    You may not post new threads
    You may not post replies
    You may not post attachments
    You may not edit your posts

    BB code is On
    Smilies are On
    [IMG] code is On
    HTML code is On
    Trackbacks are Off
    Pingbacks are Off
    Refbacks are Off



    FREE Quilting Newsletter