I'm also new at quilting. I bought a large quilting hoop but found it small and cumbersome for doing a full size quilt. Purchased a frame at Hobby Lobby (they have then at JoAnn's). It's about 18 X 24 ??? (it's in the box right now since I'm between quilting projects) with PVC pipes for the frames. Very easy to assemble. We live full-time in an RV so this is perfect for me. The cost is about $130 but keep an eye out for the 40% and 50% discount coupons. Hope this helps you.