I can't attach anything tightly without using the tubing.
It just spins. The tubing is what holds the leaders in place on the metal rods. I did email the Grace Company. I'm just glad I don't need the frame just yet. But am quite sad just the same.
I just started quilting about a year ago. My biggest project was a king size quilt for our bed using the Trip around the World pattern. Not sure I want to do anything that big again. But it did turn out quite nice if I do say so myself.
