Yes, of course it works. I started quilting in hoop on my lap (16" diameter), without a stand, and I quilted several queen size quilts in it before I purchased the Jasmine. I didn't have any problems with that. I still use the simple hoop when I take my quilt work with me.
It is very comfortable to use the Jasmine because you don't have to handle the whole quilt and the weight is on the hoop, not on your shoulders. But at the beginning I couldn't afford a hoop on a stand and I had to save the money first. Now, I must admit, I have two - one made of maple and the other of oak! :thumbup: :)