I just finished a small top and I want to hand quilt it. Do I need a quilting hoop to do so. I really don't feel like spending the money on a hoop or frame. Also what threads and needles are best and what techniques do you use?

Thanks
Jen

Sharon Schamber does a very good tutorial video on Youtube for 'hoopless hand quilting'.

I have tried to use a Hoop but lilke it better hoopless. I can move the fabric around easier I think with out a hoop. have fun, and see what works best for you....no quilt police....

No reason you can't quilt in your lap. I usually use a hoop as it helps me find where I was working a little more quickly. As to needles and thread...use a thread specifically for 'hand quilting'. There are a number of brands out there and Joanns carries a pretty reasonable selection. Typical needles used are quilting 'betweens'. The smaller the number, the bigger the needle. I love Roxanne #11 and #12 but, again, there are any number of brands out there. Good luck and enjoy the process.

I use a hoop as I find it easier for me.

I use a hoop on a floor stand for hand quilting, but of course you can also quilt without. You have to baste your quilt more closely so the layers won't shift so much when you hold the quilt in your hand.
As needles I also use Betweens #11 and I prefer the John James brand. I like to use a hand quilting thread like YLI - it's glazed cotton and you don't have to use wax or Thread Heaven.
Regarding the technique: I only quilt in one direction (towards my body) and that is the reason why I have to turn my quilt while quilting. I don't use a thimble or any other tool - only thread and needle. I do single stitches, that works best for me. IMHO it is not important which method of hand quilting you use. What counts is the result and it doesn't matter how you reach it! Every hand quilter can find her/his own technique that works best. You just have to find it by practicing.

If your quilt is well basted to keep layters from shifting you shoud be fine. i've done several without a hoop and they turned out just fine.
i have several frames/hoops that i have used in the past but issues with my hands make it diificult for me to use them. i gave the hoopless method a try and was so happy with the results.

Sharon also has a great video series on Hand Basting a Quilt in preparation for quilting which is very good to use no matter which method of quilting.

Here is the link with spaces, take them out:

http:// www.youtube.com/ watch?v=bhwNylePFAA

I like to have some sort of hoop for quilting as for me it's easier to get more even stitches.

When looking for a hoop, try craigslist and freecycle as well as using a discount coupon at your local chain store. There are several threads here about what sizes are preferred.

Pam M

I recently learned hoop and hoopless hand quilting. Hoopless is easier for me and I had better control, but we all are different.

I'm more comfortable and make more even stitches when my work is hooped in a small wooden hoop.

When I was a young quilter, I used size 9 between needles, but I am older and my hands are arthritic. Now I use straw needles or milliners needles, size 8.

I like YLI glazed cotton quilting thread. It comes on big chunky wooden spools and they are hard to lose. I like that too!

And also on my list of goodies for hand quilting, this handy dandy little Clover needle case that keeps 10 threaded needles. Love it! It's terrific!

http://www.clover-usa.com/product/0/...ed_Needle_Case

Have fun with your quilting. And please post when you are done!