I've asked this question awhile back, so I thank any of you who have already responded, but I could sure use more opinions. I have a chance to buy a used, very high end floor frame for about the same price of a new Grace hoop 2 hoop on a stand. So far I have only quilted with a Q-snap frame in my lap. Any opinions on floor frames, hoops on stands, lap frames, sit on frames, etc... would be sooo helpful. Thank you everyone.

Sorry I can't help. But I'm looking into one that goes over a recliner so I can put my legs up while I quilt. Rather than using a hoop.

I have two large frames the one I set up in the basement , it took up a lot of space and I just couldn't get the hang of it I couldn't quilt in both directions so stuffed that one back in the box the other is an oval about 3 feel long and sat in front of my chair, it angeled but again I don't quilt in both directions so gave up on that, I went back to the hoop in my lap and that is what works best for me. I have to be able to turn my work often. If you can try one first that is what I would do. I was lucky, my mom had the big one and an aunt bought the smaller one for a couple bucks at a resale shop.

I have used a hoop stand ever since I started quilting (it's getting old and rickety though). Since I have never used anything else I can't say if it is better or worse but I like it. It's just right for sitting in a chair, the hoop tilts to whatever angle I need. I prefer quilting in a certain direction but I can do any direction. When it's just too hard to do I turn the stand a little.

I learned at Southern quilting bees with huge floor frames. I learned how to pull the three layers tight enough that only the edges needed basted, but not so tight that it warped everything. I feel most comfy on a floor frame. I inherited my late MIL's frame and if it weren't bigger than my living room I would have it up right now.

I now have a little lap frame, but I just don't have the same confidence on it for a larger quilt than I have for a floor frame.

You do need to watch out for some things. Either arrange the height of your frame or the chair you are sitting in to make sure you can quilt in a comfortable position. You shouldn't have to reach up and over or bend so low over your quilt. The ones I like best hang from the ceiling, but you can get or make some very good floor frames.

If the price is good and you have the room, I say jump on it. But I have a biased opinion because that's what I learned on.

Sorry I am of no help....I have mine machine quilted....but my adice would be how often do you hand Quilt....would it pay to heve this new one or does your lap one work fine?

I use the Grace EZ3 floor stand and really like it. I HATE basting with a passion and this frame is the no-baste system. I sit in an adjustable office chair so it is the right height and position my floor lamp over where I am quilting. The bad thing is how much space it takes it. Granted, you CAN fold it up and put it away, but when the frame is up it takes A LOT of room.I am working on a queen sized quilt right now and it monopolizes a large portion of one wall. It is worth it to me though to not have to baste and to have the smoothest backing you have ever seen. :mrgreen:

I looove my floor frame! I can't quilt in all directions either, but I love the quilt larger areas where the quilting is simple. The I don't have to pin or baste to finish the details in a hoop. i don't think I could survive without my frames.

Lynette

I do most of my quilting at church with other ladies on a floor frame. I am trying to rearrange things here at home to be able to put one up. I also use an adjustable office chair which I find helps me a lot. I can move the height when I want a different position, and I don't get so tired. If you have room for it, go for it! Enjoy! :lol:

Pittsburgpam
Do you mind telling me what brand your hoop is? Would you replace it with the same brand or something different? Thanks