I've just gotten my new quilt hoop - its the type that you can rest on your lap and it swivels. (I got it on e-bay for less than 1/2 of what I'd have to pay in my province!)
I've only ever quilted on a frame - start in the middle and work out to the edges - and on a frame so tightly you could probably bounce a toddler off it! I'm marking my pattern on the quilt top and getting ready to hand quilt. Do I start in the center, as I would on a frame, or does it matter? I have it heavily basted (God Bless Sharon Schamber and the internet!) and understand from other posts that its ok to have it loose in the quilt hoop - I don't have to have it singing tight?

Any helpful tips you could offer would be greatly appreciated! Now if I can only find a way to keep my 2 pooches from wanted to curl up on the "work-in-progress" ! :-D

When I use a hoop I start in the center and work my way out.

And you're right, you don't need to keep it tight - if it's loose it's easier to make the stitches.

I hope you enjoy your new toy!

I work from the center out. I have mine in the hoop quite loose. If it is too tight it is much harder to quilt and I break needles. Just adjust it to what works for you.

Same here. I quilt from the center, going in a somewhat circular manner around the top. I keep the sandwich loose to keep my stitches perfectly even.

I use the Aunt Betty and keep my fabric loose on the frame. If you Google Aunt Betty you will see how the developer uses it. You don't actually have to use the product, but it gives you a new idea for hand quilting.