When I quilt in a hoop I like to be free of a stand. Due to the mobility. I take mine wherever I go and move sometimes where I sit. Plus the fact when I go to class, etc I can easily put in a basket. If a stand is what you want to try to free up your lap and keep it in the same spot if you get up and leave the area, then go for it:))Personally, I like the hoop free. I picked up my hoop(s) in garage sales. The most I paid was about 50cents and they are nice and thick/deep. (and, big):0)I do have a stand I can put my hoop in if I would like to, and have never used it:))Hope this didn't confuse:))Skeat