Cross Stitch Stands and Frames: Finding The Right Fit -

Finding the right frame and stand to use for your cross stitching needs can feel overwhelming. In this guide, I’ll share options and considerations to help you choose the right one for your lifestyle.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase an item.

Types of Frames

In order to choose the proper frame, you’ll want to reflect on the size of the projects you enjoy working on and where you prefer to work. There are plenty of options for setting up at a desk, working on the couch, or wherever your favorite crafting area is.

Embroidery Hoops

cross stitch framed in an embroidery hoop of a frog sitting on a lily pad, holding a fishing pole in the water with cattails in the background — Fishing frog cross stitch pattern

Wood and plastic hoops are an affordable option for cross stitch projects. They come in a wide variety of sizes, and they’re light and easy to hold. I prefer to use them for smaller projects. The downside to hoops is that they sometimes leave hoop burn (stubborn creases) in the fabric, and you’ll often have to move the hoop around the project if you’re working on something large.

Scroll Frames

Scroll frames are ideal for larger cross stitch projects, and you’ll usually want a lap, desk, or floor stand to hold them because they’re too big to hold in-hand while you stitch. These make larger pieces of fabric easier to manage because you can roll up any areas you aren’t stitching, keeping them out of the way. I have this Arabeska frame that’s available on Amazon.

Q-snaps

q-snap frame with a book light attached to it. White aida fabric is secured in the frame and the partial cross stitch of satna — Q-snap frame

If you prefer holding your project, small to medium-sized frames like a Q-snap work well.

Q-snaps are square-shaped plastic frames with clamps along the sides. They hold moderate tension on the fabric and come in a wide variety of sizes. They are an affordable option which are great for large and small embroidery projects, and they’re easy to take the fabric in and out of.

Using a Stand

Stands are great for larger projects that are harder to hold, but you can also use them for smaller projects to stay hands-free, maintain better posture while you stitch, and prevent hand fatigue from holding a hoop or frame.

Picking The Right Stand For You

There are many different kinds of hoops and frames: from q-snaps, to embroidery hoops, to scroll frames, each one may require a different kind of stand. Make sure that whatever stand you choose will have the proper attachment for your favorite hoops and frames.

Consider where you like to stitch: are you a sofa stitcher, or do you prefer to work on a desk or standing up? Make sure whatever option you go with will be conducive to your stitching area.

How portable would you like the stand to be? If you travel a lot and prefer to take your stuff, consider choosing a stand that is lightweight, breaks down easily, and doesn’t take up a ton of space.

Desk Stands

Nurge articulating desk stand with a round wooden embroidery hoop secured in it — Nurge articulating desk stand

The Nurge articulating desk stand works great for holding embroidery hoops. I own this one and enjoy it, but be aware that you’ll need to make the screw really tight to keep the hoop in place, otherwise it slips out easily. It’s also helpful to add grippy tape along the bottom so it doesn’t slide around. Available on Etsy

Nurge also makes a similar desk stand that has a clamp for Q-snap frames. Available on Etsy.

Another stand I own that works well for scroll frames is this adjustable table clamp from Embroidery Hoop KS (pictured above with the scroll frame). It makes it easy to adjust the slats to whatever angle and height works best.

Lap Stands

Lap stands often come as both a stand and a frame.

This Nurge lap and table stand is a frame and stand all in one. Available at Michaels in 12″.

If you like stitching on the couch, another option is this all-in-one scroll frame and lap stand from Embroidery Hoop KS.

Floor Stands

If you’re looking for a floor stand that is portable and interchangeable, I have heard great things about Lowery stands. These stands are a bit pricey, but they have lots of options available for lights, magnet boards, and different frame attachments. Available on Etsy.

A more budget friendly option for embroidery hoops is this adjustable floor stand from Michaels. I’ve had this one for years. It’s not the prettiest, but it gets the job done!

Let me know what your favorite setup for stitching is! And if you have a recommendation that is not included in this post, I’d love to hear it.