I just tried to hand quilt with no hoop and that didn't work too well. So got my 6" embroidery hoop to just try it out and that works great! Was able to lean back in my chair, with Daisy May (my 4 legged child) snuggled in next to me, and quilted away. I feel liberated!!! LOL!!! Oh...and by the way Daisy says thank you too because she got her Momma back. ;-)