Which Embroidery Frame Should You Choose?

Olivia Miller
Product & buying expert with 15+ years of retail experience

Buying Guide Tips and Tricks frame guide canvas

To get the best results with your canvas or embroidery work, we recommend using an embroidery frame. It lets you work your piece evenly and, above all, helps you sit comfortably to ease the strain on your back! Discover how to choose the embroidery frame that’s right for you!

From €20

Available Models:

Wood or plastic
Floor-standing, multi-position, or freestanding
Clip-on or sew-on

What Is an Embroidery Frame For?

You’re probably already familiar with embroidery hoops , but maybe not with embroidery frames. The main visible difference lies in the size, but also in the use. While hoops are reserved for embroidery, the sturdier frame can also accommodate canvas fabric and smyrna rug canvas. With an embroidery frame, you can stretch your fabric evenly for easier, more consistent stitching. Working evenly keeps your fabric from warping, which also makes it easier to frame afterward.
There are many types of embroidery frames: wood or plastic, simple frames or ones on a stand, clip-on or sew-on… The choice depends on your project as well as how you plan to use it.

Questions to Ask When Choosing an Embroidery Frame:

Where will you use your frame most often?

If you usually sit in an armchair or on a sofa, go for a floor-standing frame or a sofa frame. These frames are height-adjustable and let you embroider in a position that won’t strain your back.
If you embroider sitting at a table, choose table frames or multi-position frames.

Do you need to move around often or travel?

If you tend to change spots often while embroidering, we recommend choosing a clip frame instead, which adapts to any situation. Made of wood or plastic, clip frames set up quickly and are easy to carry around since they’re lightweight and compact.
If you travel, opt for travel case frames that let you take your protected project with you wherever you go.

What Frame Size Should You Choose?

Every type of frame comes in several sizes. The right size depends on your project. You need enough room to stretch your fabric without it getting in the way of your stitching. Base your choice mainly on the width of your fabric when picking a frame.

Since it’s hard to buy a new frame for every project, go by the projects you work on most often and choose the frame size that matches.

Example: If you often work on SEG de Paris canvas reference 929, which measures about 58×45 cm, we recommend a 61×30 cm frame.

For small projects, or very large ones with several smaller areas to work on (like tablecloths), a hoop is a better choice since it’s easy to move around and lets you stretch smaller areas. Here too, remember to match the hoop size to the work area and fabric size. You need enough fabric to stretch and secure it properly (about 3-5 cm beyond the hoop size).

Isabelle’s Tip

We recommend starting your project from the top left (for right-handers) and working in horizontal bands. The idea is to avoid rubbing your arm over the already-stitched area to prevent damaging it. Likewise, save the lightest colors for last to avoid getting them dirty.