A simple design? Like a quilting design, or a simple redwork type design? You do not need a stabilizer. And you certainly can hoop it. The 3 layers will accept the embroidery w/out using a stabilizer. We use emb machines to quilt all the time..no stabilizer needed. Make up a practice piece and see for yourself. I often do edge to edge quilting on the emb machine, creating many diff simple theme designs. Go ahead-- go for it.