hand quilting frame/hoop

I can only help with one thing, Sarah: a tapestry frame (in my experience only) requires that the canvas be fixed to it in some way. A quilting frame clips over the quilt and can be moved around very much more easily. . In message , Sarah Dixon writes

I use a rectangular Q-snap frame (11x17 inches). I find it an easier frame to place my quilt in for hand quilting and it is a size that allows me to carry a project with me when I travel. This size gives me plenty of easily accessible work space -- the circular frame I was using was hard to reach into the inner areas of the circle. The edges are smooth plastic and the chances of damage to the fabric are reduced because of this. I have seen a large Q snap floor frame also and have considered purchasing one for use on larger quilts but really do like the portability of the smaller frame.

Just my OHO.

I have both, and I prefer the circular quilting hoop. I used the Q-snap and found it difficult to get it adjusted. I hand-quilt all of my larger quilts, and love my hoop. My suggestion would be to just try both. It depends on your comfort of use, among other things. I know, not much help, LOL Toni

Howdy!

My preference is a 12" round wooden hoop. Like these:

Ragmop/Sandy

I have both the quilting hoop and a Q-snap. I prefer the hoop, though I do use the Q-snap on borders because it is easier to quilt close to the edge of the quilt. I think the tension on the fabric is more even with the hoop. I like to turn my work to change the direction of my stitching; that sometimes gets a bit awkward with the Q-snap.

Julia in MN

Howdy!

To get those corners quilted on the borders I sew an extra, wide border on the edge of the quilt top. This eases the strain I put on the edges while quilting and lets me quilt to 1/4" of the outer side of the "real" border. When the quilting is finished I just remove that extra, wide strip, trim the quilt (very little trimming needed w/ this method) and put the binding on it. Ragmop/Sandy--quite happy w/ Q-Snap quilting, too ;-)