Important attributes to look for when buying an embroidery hoop include material, size, and shape. Based on those factors, our top pick overall is the Morgan Products Plastic No-Slip Hoop, thanks to its quality construction and extra-strong grip. Here are more of the best embroidery hoops. Dimensions: 7.25 x 0.5 x 8 inches | Material: Plastic | Weight: 0.15 pounds Dimensions: 6, 8, 10 inches | Material: Plastic | Weight: Not listed Dimensions: 3-12 inches | Material: Bamboo | Weight: 2 pounds Dimensions: 4 inches | Material: Bamboo | Weight: 0.62 pounds Dimensions: 6, 8, 11 inches | Material: PVC | Weight: 1.58 pounds This hoop combo is made from ultra-sturdy, crack-proof plastic. Assembly (and disassembly, in case you want to pack it for a trip) is super-simple, too. All in all, this is an ultra-versatile option in terms of size and portability. Dimensions: Varies | Material: Plastic | Weight: 0.32 pounds Though these frames appear to be made from wood, they’re actually plastic (clever!) with a rubber interior for extra-strong grip. We love the funky faux wood detailing, which is reminiscent of retro and vintage decor styles. Bonus points for the single-knob screw, which adds a special aesthetic touch. Dimensions: Varies | Material: Plastic, rubber | Weight: 0.5 pounds Dimensions: 17 x 17 inches | Material: Plastic | Weight: 0.71 pounds It’s worth noting that this is not actually a hoop; however, this stand does accommodate a range of embroidery hoop sizes, ranging from four inches to just under 15 inches. In addition to the clasp portion that holds the hoop, this stand has a flat bottom, which allows for setting up your embroidery station, laptop-style, anywhere you choose. Dimensions: 23.08 x 5.01 x 2 inches | Material: Beechwood | Weight: 2.09 pounds Dimensions: 9.8 x 9.8 inches | Material: Monks cloth | Weight: 1.15 pounds
Shape
When many of us think of embroidery hoops, we think of circles. But, while two concentric circles are the traditional style of embroidery hoops, there are so many more shapes to explore these days, including rectangles, ovals, and even octagons. These shapes can come in handy when you want to keep your finished piece in your hoop, as different shapes can add visual interest.
Material
Embroidery hoops come in an array of different materials, including wood, bamboo, and plastic. Which material you choose is up to you and the goals of your project. Generally, plastic snap-grid frames are extremely durable and slippage-proof, which can make for a less frustrating experience. Wood frames have their merits, too. For one, they are often less expensive than their plastic counterparts. They can also be just as effective in terms of slip-proofing your fabric, so long as the wood isn’t warped and the screws are sufficient in terms of quality and durability. You can also find embroidery hoops made from fun, colorful plastics, as well as flexible, clip-free hoops that are made to look like another material for the sake of aesthetics (e.g. plastic can be made to look like wood).
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This article was written by Sophie Wirt, an NYC-based writer and editor, has been penning product reviews, interviews, and investigative pieces—primarily within the beauty industry—since 2015. Her work has appeared in publications including InStyle, Allure, W, SELF, and Byrdie, among others. For this article, she considered embroidery hoops in a bevy of sizes, shapes, and materials, each with an array of different embroidery projects in mind. Durability and a slip-free grip for fabric were two key components in our our decision-making process. Ultimately, she compiled a list of embroidery hoops with smooth, frustration-free crafting at the forefront.
