I like hoops. I have various sizes for different size projects. Many people use scroll rods. Both help to keep the fabric tight, but not stretched which helps to keep your stitch tension even. Also, I find it much easier to add and end threads since it keeps the area you are working on easy to find. Since a hoop will not cover the entire fabric (unless a small enough project), you will find you might want to take the hoop off if not working on the project for a while - a few days. Otherwise you can get "dent" marks from the hoop. They do press out, so I don't overly worry about that. Scroll rods have the advantage that your excess fabric is rolled onto the rods. I find the scroll rod a bit more awkward to use, but it really is a matter of personal preference.

For over 30 years I have used a 7 inch plastic and metal tension hoop on my projects even the very very large ones and it has worked great for me. Never any problems leaving marks no matter how long I have had them on the project. For my small projects like Christmas ornaments I have a 4 inch plastic and metal tension hoop. Wouldn't use anything else.

When working on a very large project I fold back the excess fabric and hold it with some of my large quilting safety pins so it does not get in the way.

I don't use hoops or scroll rods.
I haven't stitched a large project either so that may influence my choice. Most of my projects tend to be for gifts and are around the 11 x 14 inch size.
I think there is no correct answer here...all personal preference.
Mary

For small projects, I prefer to roll-and-hold. But I have a square "hoop" that I purchased specifically for beading...larger than 6-7 inch, I usually use a scroll...I don't have strength in my left hand to hold much fabric...gotta' adapt! :)

And I'm one of the few in here that HATE q-snaps... :)

For years I didn't use a hoop, then I found I was getting too much discomfort in my right hand which, as a lefty, is my " holding" hand. I'm now working on a large project (checking it twice by artsy) and I'm using 8" q-snaps for this one. I like them much better than a hoop as they are easy to move around, and don't leave dents on the fabric. Also, they are easier to hold as I can just prop them between my belly and wrist, not having to always grip them so I can stitch without getting tired, yeah!

It's whatever rocks your boat. I like the overall view of your project you get with snap frames or hoops.

Marydenmark...........do you really feel that using a hoop instead of holding by hand looks better? I just purchased an Artecy pattern and all the material last week....over $80 and I really want to do the best I can.......Thanks for your tips !!

No, that's not what I said....too tired to explain more. It's bedtime.

Don't want to put words in MaryD's keyboard, but I think she just prefers seeing everything she's done topically...You know, laid out.... :)

Anyway, "the best you can do" is not stress over every decision about your new projects. Honestly, making a bunch of changes at starting a new, big project is kind of like quitting smoking, beginning a seriously intense diet change, beginning new medications, starting a divorce, losing loved ones/friends/pets, weaning from drugs, recovering from major illness/surgery, and searching for a new hair salon...all on one Monday. Yikes! :)

For my small to medium projects I don't use anything - just hold it in my hand. But for my large projects I use a frame so that I can keep my tension even. I am still undecided about purchasing a set of Q-snaps but I will make a decision shortly as I am going to start "Sweet Remembrance" or "Orchid Cat" as soon as I have finished Majesty 11 ( a grey cat with no fractional stitches or back stitching - it relies on shading to get the depth in the picture).