i do too...use my hoop quite loose, I also use needles that are a bit longer....i have a hard time with the really short needles.....thy say it takes at least 5 quilts to learn to hand quilting.....i tried without a hoop, and didn`t like it...I also use a thimble with a little ridge..i find it is much better and the needle doesn`t slip...
Originally Posted by
GemState
For me, quilting in the hoop is much easier. The secret is to have your quilt quite 'loose and saggy' in the hoop. It should move up and down 3 or 4 inches. Lots of people quilt without a hoop as well. It is whatever is easiest for you.