I use a 14-16" circle hoop. I've had a bigger hoop, and a oval hoop and even a smaller hoopThey were just alittle odd to use for me. In my 14-16" hoop, I put the quilt in the hoop, and eventually pull it but not tight. All around the hoop. When I start to hand quilt, I'll do a few stitches, and then I decide, if I need to go a little tighter, or loose it up a little. If it's(the quilt) is a little tight, I lay my hand in the middle, and give it a little pressing(push). In fact I have a quilt, that is 99 3/4% done. I have a Grandmothers flower garden, that I will start hand quilting, probably next week sometime. Hope this will help some what. Don-isewman

I use a round hoop or a rectangular frame according to the pattern I am quilting. I can easily control moving it around on my lap. Have hand quilted baby to king sized quilts this way.

I don't use anything when I handquilt - just quilt in my lap, but it is pinned!

with a hoop you have to have it in the hoop, you don't want it to tight but just enough so your needle will rock in and out, GG

can't get on with either.

all my quilts are hand quilted and have never used a frame or a hoop!!!

I am so glad so many people said they don't use a frame or hoop.I amm enjoying hand quilting sooo much more without one.And I must say my quilt is looking pretty good to!Thanks for everybodys input.

I've always used a hoop. Last one I didn't use anything, just quilted it on my lap. Worked well. Just be careful not to pull the stitches too tight. I thought it was much easier than moving the hoop around.