I use a wooden hoop (about 18 inches) that I hold in my lap. I put the foot up on my recliner and enjoy the relaxationas much as I enjoy the hand quilting.
When I make the "sandwich" I use large safety pins to keep it stretched out. When I place the first section in the hoop, I make sure the top fabric is taunt; then I make sure the backing fabric is tight. Occaaionally I have to loosen it a bit. If it's too tight it is hard to make small stitches.
I use a small needle to aid in making small stitches, also.
Ilike the "Betweens"
I use Coats and Clark Quilting thread.