Vanessa I have quilted for 30 yrs.by hand. Useing a frame takes alot of practice. I do prefer them to hoops. I have 2 very expensive frames. In looking at your site and the advice of other quilter in answer to your questions I have come up with an opinion. Frames take up alot of room. I am impressed with the look of the ulmer frame it works similarrly to a hoop but has the mechanics of a frame. I think I would put my money there. What a cool gift and a cool mom. rosefrench