Definitely a plastic hoop. It holds the fabric more taut and is easier to work with. I would use a 6" myself, but you could use as large as a 7" hoop since the fabric is 15x18". I find the 6" to work well with a project this size and use the 7" as my largest hoop for very large projects. Anything larger than 7" it is harder to stretch your fingers across to work your project unless you have big hands and long fingers.

Very nice fall design by the way. I hope it turns out beautiful!

I would use an 8"x8" or 11"x11" Q-Snap frame, Linda. They are also plastic, very light, come in many sizes, and don't leave hoop rings on your fabric. Maybe try a small size first to see if you like them. Once you have several sizes, they can be put together to make just about any size frame you need. Check them out here at ECS under Needles Hoops and Supplies, then Needlework Frames. I have not used a hoop in many years.

I always use a 7 inch plastic metal tension hoop now matter what size of a project I do except for small things and then I use the 3 inch hoop. It holds my fabric very taut and works great even for large projects. I have been using this type of hoop for over 30 years of stitching. I tried a wooden hoop once and also the regular plastic hoop and didn't like either one so threw them away.

You will find that trying out different types of hoops will let you decide which one will work best for you. Everyone is different.

Enjoy your stitching!

lcimprich this is a question to which you well get 15 different answers and we are all convinced we are right.😄 It ends up coming down to a matter of personal preference. I, like syagel, use a 7” tension hoop. So you probably won’t really get a straight answer. Get a hoop and try it. Maybe the next time try something different. Regardless happy stitching.
Kris

I agree, Kris! I'm not trying to start a war here, I just prefer Q-Snaps or scroll rods. For Linda's project, I would use Q-Snaps because it is small. Our objective here is to answer other stitchers' questions and to give them options. We all have different experiences with what works best for us.

I learned to stitch in 1956 from my Grandma. At that time, hoops were the only option available, unless you stitched in-hand. I learned embroidery first using hoops, then tried in-hand but couldn't keep an adequate tension and wound up with a wrinkled mess, so I went back to hoops. When I switched to cross-stitch (I don't remember what age, but long ago) I still used hoops until cross-stitch grew more popular back in the 70s (80s??) and all the new options became available. I have not gone back to hoops since. I use floor stands, table top stands, scroll rods, stretcher bars, Q-Snaps, whatever works best for the project at hand. I would not limit myself to any one thing, try them all.

Just to stir the pot, so to speak, I only use a wooden hoop but
I have been using this hoop for over 50 yrs. I would also note that
the Q-snap thingy is impossible for some one with RA in hands
and wrist are impossible.

I have arthritis, too, maryann. But not rheumatoid like yours, I have just plain old age arthritis in my fingers probably from years of continuous typing for work. In your case, I agree with using a hoop.

A susiebell7: I used to use the q-snaps but when I gave all my "stash" away
thinking I would never x-stitch again I was trying to disassemble the darn thing
and had a meltdown because I couldn't get it apart! My daughter patiently took
it out of my hands, disassembled it, handed me a tissue and gave me hug!
When I pick up my old wooden hoop it is like the most comfortable thing, like
your favorite jeans or slippers! So glad I can x-stitch again. Just thought I'd share that
because it is such a good feeling, that hoop!

maryann, I'm glad you can stitch again, too! I know I'd be lost without my stitching.

Thank you all for your input. I have just retired and looking to doing cross stitching again, This weekend I will be going thru all my craft tubs to see what I have acquired over the years. I might unearth a hoop or two. I will keep you updated. Linda :-)