How to Use An Embroidery Hoop: The Key to Effortless Stitching

One of the first techniques to learn for hand embroidery is how to use an embroidery hoop. This rather rudimentary embroidery tool is an important one to use: it will help keep your fabric in place and make the entire stitching experience a lot more enjoyable! This easy, straight forward tutorial will show you the basics and give you some helpful tips to set you up for success.

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This post is part of a series of posts all about hand embroidery supplies.

How To Use an Embroidery Hoop

One of the most common kinds of embroidery hoops you’ll find are screw tension hoops. Here’s how to use one.

cutting the fabric

Cut a piece of fabric that is at least 3-4 inches larger than the diameter of the hoop.

separating the rings

Separate the inner and outer rings of the hoop.

placing fabric on top of inner ring

Place the inner ring under the piece of fabric

securing outer ring of embroidery hoop

Loosen the top screw. Place the outer ring on top of the fabric and inner ring.

tightening the hoop

Tighten the screw of the hoop.

tightening the fabric

Pull the fabric edges until it feels tight like a drum.

Helpful Tips

  • There technically isn’t a “right side” of an embroidery hoop, but most people find it easiest to use side with the fabric closest to you.
  • For a nicer finish, align the grain line of the fabric so that it runs horizontally and vertically in relation to the top screw.
  • Try not to over-stretch the fabric – if the grain of the fabric looks distorted, it may be too tight.
  • If the hoop has a flat head screw, use a small screw driver to get it extra tight.
  • Screw getting in the way of your thread while you stitch? Try flipping the hoop upside down or using a grime guard.

Everything You Need To Learn Embroidery In One Place

Any new skill can leave you feeling overwhelmed with where to start and let’s face it: your time is limited.

I created this guide with you in mind!

It has everything in it that you need to know to get started stitching. Comes with tips, material recommendations, and 6 fun projects that will build your confidence and allow you to not just learn the art of embroidery but have something to show for it!

Do I Need To Use An Embroidery Hoop?

While an embroidery hoop is not necessarily required, there are many benefits to using one. I highly recommend beginners start with a hoop. You will have more control over the fabric and it will make the learning process a lot easier and more enjoyable.

Benefits of Using An Embroidery Hoop

  1. Embroidery hoops stretch and stabilize the fabric, helping to preserve the structure and weave of the fabric, which will help keep your stitches neat.
  2. Fabric may gather or wrinkle under tension, but keeping it tight in a hoop will prevent your stitches from puckering the fabric.
  3. They help prevent hand fatigue and keep extra fabric out of the way.
  4. You can use a hoop stand to hold the hoop so your hands are completely free.

Of course, there may be a situation where you can’t use an embroidery hoop. This article discusses some of the reasons and offers some alternatives.

FAQs

Should You Use a Hoop When Cross Stitching?

This depends on the type of fabric you are using. If you are using Aida fabric, you may not need to because it is a very stiff fabric, which doesn’t require being stretched or supported by an embroidery hoop. However, if you are using softer, more pliable fabrics such as linen, you may want to use an embroidery hoop. In general, you may find it easier to hold and stitch your project in an embroidery hoop, so it won’t hurt to use one!

Can You Reuse Embroidery Hoops?

Yes you can! Embroidery hoops can be reused multiple times. The only reason you would have to stop using the same embroidery hoop is if the hardware rusts, bends, or weakens over time. (Rarely ever do the rings break.) Most embroidery hoops can withstand a lot of wear and tear.

What Can I Do If I Don’t Have an Embroidery Hoop?

If you can’t afford one or you’re not able to get one for some reason, maybe give this take away container DIY embroidery hoop a shot!

Help! My Fabric Keeps Slipping

If you’re having trouble with the fabric slipping, you may need to tighten the embroidery hoop more or bind your embroidery hoop using cotton twill tape or bias tape. You can read more about ways to prevent this here: How To Keep Fabric Tight In Embroidery Hoops

how to use an embroidery hoop

Learn More About Hand Embroidery

Once you start embroidering, you’re bound to have a lot of hoops laying around. This article has some great embroidery hoop storage ideas.

This page has even more tutorials for beginners.

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