Sherri,
I use my embroidery hoop for small areas, it all depends on the depth of batting, to me. I most always use a low loft cotton or wool so it really only matters the type of quilting you are doing.
The last quilt police was fired! You are allowed to try, to do, or work any way with any thing you please! Honest, no one will ever tell you it's wrong around here. We be the nice 'uns.