Correct hooping for best embroidery results

Place the lower hoop on a fl at surface, then place the backing and the fabric and smoothen both without stretching the fabric.

Place the upper hoop and gently press it down. If you cannot push easily, loosen the fastening screw on the lower part of the hoop and try again.

When your garment is hooped correctly, you will be able to run your fi ngers over the fabric without it moving or rippling. If your garment is too loose, take it out of the hoop and repeat the process. Once hooped, never pull the fabric or tighten the screws further as this can affect the placement of your designs.

The process for a magnetic hoop is almost the same. When placing the upper part, hold it over the lower part and let it fall, taking care not to pinch your fi ngers as the magnets are very strong. In contrast to the standard frame, a magnetic frame permits small adjustments to the fabric or stabiliser to remove folds once it is closed.

Delicate fabrics, satin, lycra, and thin nylon can be diffi cult to hoop as they tend to slip and the hoop can leave a mark. The solution is to hoop only the backing and lay the fabric on top, secured in place with temporary adhesive spray, or use a sticky backing without spray. If hooping only the backing, use a bigger frame so that the garment can lie on it.