I've never used a frame. This is actually the first time I've used a hoop. I quilt with it all bunched on my lap on the couch. I found that working with a hoop is faster for me and made it easier to keep the quilt smooth but there was no difference in the number of stitches done. (about 7 an inch) My stitches will never be small and even and certainly not beautiful like the women do on here but I'm okay with that.