How to Use an Embroidery Hoop for Cross Stitch
A hoop holds your fabric taut so your stitches stay even. It's one of the simplest ways to improve your cross stitch, and it can double as a frame when you're done.
Choosing a size
For stitching, pick a hoop that's comfortable to hold. Many stitchers use one between 15 and 25 cm and move it around the design. To display a finished piece in a hoop, choose one slightly larger than the design itself. Browse our Nurge embroidery hoops.
Putting fabric in the hoop
- Loosen the screw on the outer ring and separate the two rings.
- Lay the inner ring on a table and place your fabric on top, with the area you want to stitch centred.
- Press the outer ring down over the fabric and inner ring.
- Gently pull the fabric edges until it's taut like a drum, keeping the weave straight, then tighten the screw.
Getting the tension right
The fabric should be firm but not stretched out of shape. If the holes look distorted, loosen it slightly. Retighten as you go, because fabric relaxes as you work.
Avoiding hoop marks
- Take your work out of the hoop at the end of each session.
- Avoid placing the hoop over finished stitches where possible.
- Wrapping the inner ring with cotton tape gives extra grip and protects the fabric.
Finishing your work in a hoop
- Centre the finished design in the hoop and tighten it.
- Trim the excess fabric to about 3 cm all round.
- Run a gathering stitch around the edge and pull it tight at the back, or glue the fabric to the inner ring.
- Add a felt circle at the back for a neat finish.
Looking for something small to finish in a hoop? Try our beginner kits or kits under £25.