Using Hoops in Embroidery
There are many different sizes of hoops on the market today. Many
of the embroidery machines come with a standard 5x7" hoop, which is
actually somewhat bigger, but the 5x7" refers to the area that it
can embroider. Hoop sizes include the following:
A very small hoop will fit items such as socks and the inside of a
pocket on top of a shirt. They are also used for small designs on
baby items, such as bibs.
A medium hoop is one of the most used sizes. It is a 4x4 hoop and
many different designs will fit this particular hoop size. In fact,
some embroidery machines may only have up to a 4x4 hoop capacity.
The large hoop is 5x7 and is often used for T-shirt designs. It is
the hoop that is probably used most often.
The extra large hoop is used for split designs. It is also a good
hoop on which to learn and practice the embroidery craft. This hoop
may be lifted out and moved to another hook position.
The jumbo hoop is not used for most embroidery machines, as many of
the machines will not be able to accommodate the jumbo hoops.
Hat hoops are used for custom made tasks.
There are not only different sizes of machine embroidery hoops, but
different types of hoops as well. These include the tubular hoops,
magnetic hoops, arm-type hoops and double height hoops.
The tubular hoops are very versatile and simple to use. The tubular
hoops are different from other hoops because the hoop's arms are on
the outside of the garments and connect to the inside hoop ring,
while the larger outer ring is on the inside of the garment. They
are best used with garments that do not open up, including polo
shirts, T shirts and sweatshirts. These are the most commonly used
hoops today.
Magnetic hoops are easy to mount on your embroidery machines, but
they do need a magnetic adapter. These hoops are primarily used for
lightweight apparel.
The Q-mag hoops are quick and simple to use. They are much like the
standard magnetic hoops, but are appropriate for larger garments
than are the standard magnetic hoops.
The arm-type hoops are all purpose hoops which are used with the
table for items such as button-down shirts and other apparel items
that open up.
The wooden embroidery hoops are very durable and hold well because
of the grain pattern on the hoop. They have double height
construction which adds to the holding power. These hoops need to be
kept free of moisture or they may warp.
The J-Back or jacket back hoops are ideal for large designs on heavy
apparel items such as jackets and coats.
There are some fabrics which will not work well with the embroidery
hoops. Therefore, you may need to embroider without the hoop, but
you will need to follow certain guidelines in order to do so.
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