Spring Tension Hoop

This type of hoop in known as a "Spring Tension Hoop". Hoops are available in 3 1/2 inch, 5 inch, and 7 1/4 inch sizes.

The hoop is composed of two parts - a plastic ring and a metal ring with a spring adjustment on it. The metal ring fits into the grove in the plastic ring when the spring tension clamp is squeezed together. (See second image.)

See More: How to Put Fabric in a Spring Tension Hoop.

Unlike wooden hoops, spring tension hoops will not leave marks on your fabric when kept clean and grime-free. Spring tension hoops hold fabric very tightly and do not create large hoop creases. Fabric should be removed from the rings immediately when stitching is suspended or completed.

Spring Tension Hoops work best with mid-weight fabrics. Lighter weight fabrics slip out easily and very heavy-weight fabrics are difficult to place in the hoop.

If Aida fabric is stiff, you may want to rinse out the sizing before attempting to place it in the spring tension hoop.

Slipping fabric may be avoided by wrapping the metal ring with fabric tape to add extra grip.

To avoid catching floss on the spring part of the metal ring, position the hoop so that you hold it by the spring clamp as you stitch.