Crude example, but it works.
 

I posted that I would show pix of my self=made sock holder..sorry to be this late, but that mean ole flu knocked me down. This was made from a coat hanger with needle=nose pliers and the electrical thingmajigs on the ends. I made 2 of these--diff sizes. They worked. Then I learned about pinning to stabilizer-duh!--but this was 10/15 yrs ago, I think. The sock hoops are not really necessary...you can do the pinning and accomplish the embroidery. Anyway, my crudely made appliances:

very clever, thanks for sharing

Yes clever indeed!!!

Very clever invention for embroidery on those difficult to hoop projects.

That is awesome. I just rummaged thru my closet so I could try and replicate it, and cannot believe i don't have a single wire hanger!!!