I’m trying out using a q-snap for the first time today. My question is, is it safe to leave the embroidery in the frame when I’m done stitching? Or should I remove it, like when using a hoop? Which, hoop or q-snap, do you prefer?
I'll say, that after experimenting with Q-snaps, I'm back to the basic hoop. I can see how the Q-snap might be better if I'm working on a larger piece, but right now I'm doing a bitkit and the hoop just feels better.
For large projects, I often use a scroll frame that's made by K's Creations. If you google it, you can find a vendor. I've had this so long, I don't remember where I got it, but I know they still make them. The downside with these is that you need to stitch your fabric to the frame, but I find that the effort involved is well worth the time. You don't need to remove your work until you're finished and I haven't had any problems with stitch compression or wrinkles in my work. So, in the long run, the time spent stitching linen to these frames is saved when you consider how often you take your work out of a standard hoop to re-position it or give your work a break at the end of your stitching day. You can see how the frame scrolls to move your work as you go. I also have a wooden stand called a "Stitch Master" that is really spiffy. That was made by Frank A. Edmonds, and they are still available. My K's Creations scroll frame clamps into it perfectly. You put it in front of your chair and there's no need to hold a hoop. The height adjusts and you can tilt your work to get the most comfortable angle. The stand also works with quilting hoops for any other crossover makers out there.
I tried split rod scroll frames, but those are NASTY. They can snag your fabric and the fabric doesn't ever want to stay put. I absolutely despise these. I'm not a fan of Q-snaps due to the damage they've caused in the past. I still go back to my standard hoop because it's easy to handle. That said, if you have a large project, you need to fold your work over itself (so the hoop isn't pressing against bare stitches and compressing them) and roll any excess so it's easy to stitch. Personally, I've found that my OXO small potato chip clips (the blue thingie in the photo) are good for this. They also have a magnet on the back, so they can double as needle minders. I find that I need to replace standard hoops regularly because the top part of the hoop seems to delaminate and stretch over time. Also, the little rubber guards at the top always seem to want to go their own way as you can see.
I nearly forgot! Yes, there are unicorns among us who stitch in hand with no hoops or frames whatsoever. I’ve tried that, but I get wonky stitches if I go bare naked.
I've never tried Q-snaps. They just seem bulky to me (but maybe I should give them a try!). I mainly use a 10x11-inch rectangular hoop (and a stand), and remove my stitching from the hoop at the end of each day. There's a lot of moving the hoop around, but I haven't had a problem with wrinkles or hoop marks or fraying or wearing. Good luck. (And your piece is beautiful!)
I am a newbie to this, I have tried a Q-snap and it did leave a little impression. I prefer to do stitching in hand whenever possible. I love your work!
Generally, I agree it’s best not to leave your work in a hoop. One thing to consider is whether the Q-snap fits so tightly that you might damage your work from repeated removal. I’ve sworn them off for this reason - mine fit so tightly that it severely frayed the edge of my fabric. I prefer a hoop or my trusty K’s Creations scroll frame. These days, I lean toward a basic hoop.
If you use a q snap just “loosen” the tension at the end of stitching session.
Fantastic.
I'll say, that after experimenting with Q-snaps, I'm back to the basic hoop. I can see how the Q-snap might be better if I'm working on a larger piece, but right now I'm doing a bitkit and the hoop just feels better.
Please tell me about these “stretchers” what are they called and where do you get them
I nearly forgot! Yes, there are unicorns among us who stitch in hand with no hoops or frames whatsoever. I’ve tried that, but I get wonky stitches if I go bare naked.
I've never tried Q-snaps. They just seem bulky to me (but maybe I should give them a try!). I mainly use a 10x11-inch rectangular hoop (and a stand), and remove my stitching from the hoop at the end of each day. There's a lot of moving the hoop around, but I haven't had a problem with wrinkles or hoop marks or fraying or wearing. Good luck. (And your piece is beautiful!)
I am a newbie to this, I have tried a Q-snap and it did leave a little impression. I prefer to do stitching in hand whenever possible. I love your work!
Lovely work, btw!
Generally, I agree it’s best not to leave your work in a hoop. One thing to consider is whether the Q-snap fits so tightly that you might damage your work from repeated removal. I’ve sworn them off for this reason - mine fit so tightly that it severely frayed the edge of my fabric. I prefer a hoop or my trusty K’s Creations scroll frame. These days, I lean toward a basic hoop.
I go back and forth between hoops, q snaps, scroll rods. I think you should remove your WIP from the Q Snaps after your stitching session.