Wooden hoops If you go into any well-stocked needlecraft store you will see an array of wooden hoops available in a variety of sizes. Wooden hoops are easy to use. They have a screw on one ring which is used to achieve the correct tension. The price varies depending on the quality of the wood.   Spring tension hoops This sort of hoop was originally designed for machine embroidery but is now used by many cross stitchers. Spring tension hoops provide a very constant and even tension whilst you are stitching. This type of hoop tends to be more expensive and is not available in such a wide variety of sizes.   Flexi-hoops Flexi-hoops are very versatile and easy to use. They consist of a rigid inner hoop and a more flexible outer hoop. The outer hoop is stretched on top of the inner hoop and this holds the fabric firmly in place. Flexi-hoops are available in a range of different sizes, shapes and colours. They are great for working on small projects because, after the stitching is finished, they double-up as a decorative frame for mounting.

Getting the best results with or without a hoop Why should I use a hoop? Many stitchers use a hoop because they feel it helps to keep their stitches nice and even and, as a result, their stitching is neater. If you are stitching on a finer fabric you will find that a hoop, as well as keeping the fabric taut, will also enable you to see the holes in the fabric more easily. Larger projects If you are working on a larger project it is always advisable to use either a hoop or a frame. However, when you are not working on a design it is important to take the fabric out of your hoop otherwise you may find it marks the fabric. Stitching in the hand Although stitching with a hoop gives better tension, many stitchers prefer not to use one when working on smaller projects. If you like to make your cross stitches in a sewing motion, then to achieve the best results it is wiser to hold your fabric in your hand. Small projects can often be completed more quickly using this method, although you need to take extra care to maintain a good tension whilst stitching. Travelling light Stitching on the move is a good example of when hand held stitching can be an advantage, as reducing the amount of equipment needed for your stitching makes the project much more portable. It's up to you! Cross stitchers are very firmly divided into two groups - those who won't stitch ANYTHING without a hoop, and those who would never think of using one. However, there are really no hard and fast rules. If you always stick to one particular method, you might like to try the alternative. It's certainly worth giving both methods a try and then choosing the one that works best for you. If you find that you are able to enjoy both methods then you will have the best of both worlds.

Three steps to mounting your work in a hoop By following these simple instructions, mounting your work in a hoop will become second nature. 1. Wrapping your hoop Before placing your project in the hoop, it's a good idea to bind both the rings of the hoop with 6mm (0.25in) wide ribbon. The ribbon will stop your fabric from becoming snagged or pulled by any rough edges or splinters that may be on the hoop. You will need to wind the ribbon around both rings, making sure you are overlapping the previous section of ribbon as you go round. Secure the end of the ribbon where you started off.

2. Preparing your hoop Secure the ribbon in place with a few neat stitches to stop it from unravelling while you are stitching. Next, lay the outer ring over the inner ring loosely and adjust the screw slowly until the rings fit together snugly, but not too tightly (you don't want the hoop to pinch the fabric too harshly). Slip the outer ring off, without adjusting the screw, and lay the fabric over the inner ring, making sure that the design area in placed centrally over the hoop.

3. Securing your hoop Carefully push the outer ring over the fabric and inner ring. Make sure that your fabric is taut in the hoop - it should be just the right tension for you to stitch on. If you are right-handed, it's best to hold the hoop with the screw in the ten o'clock position. If you are left-handed, keep the screw in the two o'clock position. By keeping the screw in these positions, you will prevent your threads from catching on the screw whilst you stitch.

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