I used to use a hoop that I could put on a stand but for the past 10 years or so I haven't used a frame. It has to be pinned tighter (more closely together) and I lay it out every week or so to repin if I need to. I'm able to get better stitches, it's not cumbersome to use, I can take it in the car easily. Sometimes I use straight pins to hold it together if I have an area I'm working on that I'm concerned about. Try it on a small quilt and see if you like it. Just be sure you baste or pin it well.