My greatest problem is getting the right needle and thimble that will stay on. I am presently using a self-threading needle about1 3/4 long and a leather tube thimble with a metal dimpled insert on the end. It does make a difference in the lenght and evenness of my stitches. And I am not useing a hoop. I am doing an undulating feather pattern for a 4 inch border and it is going well.