hand quilting near the edge??
 

I'm new to hand quilting, took a class where we were instructed to use a hoop (which I love). I'm doing individual swirl designs inside each separate block. I'm now up to the ones at the edges of the quilt, so only half of the hoop gets filled. Is the hoop still used for this? Are there any special tips for working the edges in a hoop?

There are half hoops for this. but I attach some additional fabric to the ends of my work piece so that it fits in the hoop.

I've attached additional fabric to the edges also. Good luck with your project.

At the very edge I switch to an embroidery hoop.

Iwi ng it freehand, no hoop, never had a problem

Years ago a quilting magazine had instructions for making what I believe they called a hoop sleeve, to aid in quilting near the edge. Several of us in the quilt guild made one. I used mine constantly while I was still able to hand quilt. It covers about a third of your quilting hoop, and you pin the edge of your project to it. These pics are probably sufficiently self-explanatory, but if you're interested and need more information just let me know.

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(The rectangular stitching you see in the first pic is velcro sewn on the wrong side.)

Thank you all so much for your wonderful tips! I knew just where to come for help.
I really appreciate this board so much. Hope I can pay it sufficiently forward. :)

Here is what I'm doing. I have a GFGarden, I'm working on, with the odd shape outer edges. I've sewed 2 pieces of fabric. To the backing, and to the top, of the quilt. My material width is 6-7". I catch the top, and the backing, and the 2 pieces, I've sewed and I can still continue with my hand quilting. Hope I explained this right

Yes, this is what I used when using a round hoop. I have now switched to the pvc square/rectangles and don't find I need it. I just put the sandwich in, and let it fill 1/2 the space and it doesn't seem to be a problem.

what's the pvc square/rectangle?