I have used a hoop in the past, but found it difficult and back breaking. Wish I could comfortably use a thimble but never have adapted to it. I just baste like crazy and start in the middle and work out, checking often so that nothing is bunching up in the back. So I keep sewing until my fingertips cry for mercy. Amazing the callouses one can build up after a queen size quilt :mrgreen: I also use a tiny footstool thingy that Keepsake Quilting catalogs offer. Prevents a lot of stiffness in the lower spine.