Q-snap or frame?
Hi,I would like to start a new project soon, and it is going to be quite big :) Its a tapestry, and as I have not done anything so big yet, I would like to ask some advice: how would you recommend to do it, with a frame or with Q-snaps?
Thanks!
TJ
I use Q-snaps... ever since I first came across them a few years ago, thats all Ive used since. They come in several different sizes and some of them even have an extension kit to make them bigger. I will never use a hoop again. If you leave the clamps on the project all the time like I do, then they will start to become looser. When this happens I cut strips of felt and put it between the project and the clamps. This protects your stitches some as well as makes the clamps tighter on your project! Ah, the classic Q-Snap versus frame debate—kind of like deciding between coffee or tea when you’re running on barely any sleep! Both have their perks, so it really comes down to what feels right for you. Q-Snaps are super lightweight, easy to handle, and don’t leave those pesky creases in your fabric, which is a blessing when you’re balancing a baby and a craft project. Plus, they’re portable, so you can stitch anywhere—even during those quick diaper changes. Frames, on the other hand, give you a sturdy surface and can make it easier to keep your tension even, especially for bigger projects. They do take up more space and can be a bit clunkier to carry around, though. Personally, I like Q-Snaps for most projects because they’re fuss-free and gentle on my fabric, but if I’m doing something large or need extra support, I pull out the frame. Either way, you really can’t go wrong—it’s all about what fits your lifestyle and stitching style, especially when you’re squeezing in those precious crafty moments!
Mostly I stitch "in hand" without any frame, even on designs where the fabric size is larger than 28"x28".I just roll it up and hold it in my left hand and stitch with my right.However, I also like to use Snaps and scroll frames sometimes.Over the years, Ive mostly used scroll frames.My father made them for me so I had several lengths of arms and rods to accommodate the various sizes of fabrics.These worked good for large projects for the obvious reason that they kept the fabric rolled and out of the way.But these can be expensive to buy on-line or at a store.A couple years ago my friend showed me her Q-Snaps.They were so easy to use and light weight and now I have several of them.The Q-Snaps are versatile and come in many sizes so you can mix and match short sides with long sides to make the perfect fit for your size of fabric.And the Q-Snaps keep the tension very well, too.If you are like me though and mostly stitch without any frame/hoop, and also I like to keep my hands on top of the fabric, using a sort of sewing technique, you can still use the Q-Snap, just dont tighten the fabric too much.Hope this gives you some more ideas.:) I have never used the Q-snaps myself, so I can not advise you on them.
I always used a scroll frame for large projects. Recently I got a floor stand with scroll frame attachment and I would never use anything else now.
I use scroll frames for larger projects and highly recommend them. I have used Qsnaps and really like high taut they hold the fabric but wouldnt use them for very large projects.A down side to using scroll frames is that they can be heavy and you may need to use a floor stand as well. but this can also be helpful as you can then do 2 handed stitching and once you are use to stitching with both hands it can increase your stitching speed. Hope this helps you with your decision. Thank you :) Actually I could try a frame at the weekend and I really liked it. When I first started to stitch I used hoops and frames.... but now I always stitch in hand no matter what size the design is.... when im doing my haed i always use Qsnap. the others, never use any frame. just hold it with my hand This is going to be HAED too :) Garden of delights, so beautiful :) :D all haed was beautiful. my suggestion is using Qsnap. but in the end, it depend personal habit :D Anyway, thanks for the reply :) Have a nice day!