Depending on the size - what about a scroll style instead of a hoop? I used the scroll for needle point too.
Also, when I was learning to quilt I was told to use stretcher bars. (this was back in the late 70's) What you do is have a frame, my friend made it out of molding put together like a picture frame, that has fabric stapled to it on the inside, and you just baste your piece onto the fabric and it will be held in place. Hope that make sense.