No need for a smaller hoop unless it is more comfortable for you. I have 14" I think. What I like to do is once my sandwich is in the hoop, before I tighten the screw I run my fist around the entire inner circumference of the hoop on the backside giving the fabric sandwich a bit of a push. I then lay the hoop down on a flat surface (I use my coffee table) right side up. I then "test" the tauntness of it by placing my open hand in the middle. There should be enough give that your open palm hand and splayed fingers laying flat easily touches the hard surface. You do not want it taunt like a hand embroidery hoop. Once I do that I tighten up my hoop. If I am quilting away and still having problems I will make it even looser.