I used to embroider and just couldn't handle the hoop so managed without. When I started to quilt I ran into the same problem. For some reason I have to have the whole thing in my grasp, so manipulating all the fabric does sometimes become a problem. I would love to hear more on this subject because I just know there has to be a solution without a bunch of cost. I inherited a huge frame that could take up a room, lots of hoops in various sizes and materials and still just hand quilt without anything in my lap but fabric, needle, thead, scissors and threader.