Absolutely IS easier for me..my hoop is about 18-20"--round...and I hoop the center first. I love to sit in a recliner or rocking chair with armrests--one side of the hoop rests on an armrest (right for me) and my left hand is under the hoop guiding my needle. It is soooo easy for me that I would never choose any other way--and I prefer my round hoop to my oval, even tho it has a stand. I just toss the quilt onto the bed, take the hoop off and move it to the next area. I hand baste my layers loosely and the sandwich stays together well enough to smoothe into the hoop at each change. It is just whatever you can get accustomed to that works best for you.