Beautiful project! I only use 7 1/2 inch plastic and metal tension hoop no matter what size of project I have. I have done a lot larger than this project, and still only use a hoop. I know several ladies here use the wooden frames when they stitch so they can tell you about them.

Thanks, that's encouraging. I can't afford an expensive, large frame at this time. Do you have any problem with creasing when you use a hoop all over the fabric?

I have never had any problem with creasing in my projects and I have left the hoop on projects for a couple of months at a time. I have several hoops and several projects going all at the same time so I just leave my hoops on them. if I didn't already have so many projects here and on my wish list I would consider doing this one. it is very pretty.

threeoutside, if you go back several pages there are many opinions offered on various types of frames/hoops. I think it's all up to the individual. My daughter uses frames, usually my castoffs because try as I might, I cannot use them. I am ashamed to admit that I stitch free hand and looking at my work after it's been washed, pressed and framed it looks pretty darn good. The closer I am to completion, the greater my dissatisfaction. syagel's work is beautiful and she uses a hoop. Look on our website. We don't always need these expensive gadgets. People have done exquisite work hundreds of years ago by candlelight. Have fun and use what you have available. Keep us posted and hopefully you'll display that beautiful sampler on our website soon.

I expect you know there are three more to this set, Spring, Summer and Winter. I have them all, but have never started them. I'm sure it will be a great picture finished. It is beautiful. It shouldn't be harder to do, just take longer.

Thanks, everyone, I'm encouraged. I've got a couple different sized hoops, if I save up enough to get this kit I'll try those. I did see the other three. I like Summer & Winter but am not crazy about the Spring one. Maybe if I ever do the other three, I'll be adept enough to change the elements in the Spring on I don't care for...

threeoutside: I now use a scroll frame. I have used hoops in the past, but had issues with the hoops marring the fabric. Maybe I used them wrong, I don't know. But, use what you're used to that will be fine.

Does ECS carry all four of these?? Just might be some of my next projects!!

I think they do, but one or more may be sold out. I think you can pre-order, though, for when they get them back in.

Trick I learned for wooden boops: Wrap both hoops with lace hem tape & stitch it on hoop near screw / metal plate. Won't mark & can leave fabric in hoop.

I'm trying the metal spring / plastic boops that SYagel uses, but femoving hoop when not stitching.

threeoutside, I'll buy the kit for you as an early Christmas present. Just leave your name and address with Jennifer Henderson at ECS. I want you to have something fun to do now that the evenings are getting longer.