Keep in mind that handquilting with a hoop and without is very different. I can't hand quilt without a hoop to save my life! Kinda wish I could!I've also heard suggested but havent' tried, the wax that you run your thread thru. Some say it makes your thread glide better. I love the rhythm of hand quilting but it does take longer to do. It's a nice "work on when you don't feel like sitting in front of a machine" project.