I've had the same problem with hoops and Q-Snaps but on large projects I use Q-Snap frames. I have not found a problem with the stitches appearing crushed after I have washed my finished projects. Like yourself, I had to reduce the size of my Q-Snape frames on big projects to a 8-inch frame because I was having difficulty reaching behind to stab my needle through. Because of all the extra material that is hanging down, I roll wrapped my surplus material and use large clips to hold the rolls up... one of these days I'm going to purchase a Q-Snap 'frame cover' and see if it works holding up the excess fabric and keeping it clean.

As a suggestion... loosen the hoop and set it on the fabric, then gently tighten (pulling the fabric taut as you go), so by the time the hoop is tight enough to hold the fabric in place, you don't have to pull the flattened stitches between the two hoop pieces.

While this might not help with the squishing, LOL, it should prevent the stitches from being pulled out of shape... Wash and press with the stitching face down on a towel (press from the back), and the stitching should all plump back up...

You sound like an experienced stitcher (tackling a big piece), so you probably already know to take your hoop off every time ur done stitching (don't leave it on the fabric)... let us know how it goes for you!

I like to use a hoop and I take it off at night too. I also don't put it in the exact same spot the next day, just move it around a smidge, that way I am not on top of the same stitches all the time. And I work on one project for a couple of days then switch to another then go back to the first. I usually have 2 or 3 different things I am working on, then throw an ornament in between.