How to Measure and Store Embroidery Hoops ?

This time we're going to dive into the practical topic of how to measure and store embroidery hoops. For embroidery enthusiasts, hoops are an essential tool, and knowing the right way to measure and store them not only extends hoop’s lifespan but also contributes to the production of our embroidery projects. Let's learn together how to master this step !

1.Does hoop size matter for embroidery?

Hoop size is matter for embroidery to maintain the fabric stays taut and a smooth stitching process.

 

 If the hoop sizes is too small ,it may cause fabric wrinkle which may lead to unnecessary cost .Besides, the inappropriate hoop sizes make you stitch difficult .Also ,too big hoop sizes which cause the fabric uneven make your stitch process slowly . Therefore , it is essential to ensure that the fabric taut within the hoop is secured properly to achieve the best results during your stitching process.

1.1.About hoop size you should know

For beginner ,you should know the hoop sizes actually have two categories, one is sewing area and the other is overall hoop length which is the distance from one ear to the other on a hoop. But for hand embroidery and some home embroidery machine ,you don’t need to care the hoop length , hoop length is for commercial and industrial machines. This blog mainly talk about the measurement and storage of embroidery machine, especially for commercial and industrial machines.

1.2 Hoop size unit conversion between inch and mm

The hoop sizes indicated on the website are usually in inches, some common embroidery hoop sizes like 4 x 4 hoops ,5 x 7 hoops , 6 x 10 hoops ,7 x 12 hoops, 8 x 12 hoops, 8 x 8 hoops and so on ,these hoops are measured in inch, and mainly for home use embroidery machine . Most embroidery machine brands will indicate both inch and centimeters. But some bands are indicate just one of them . Therefore, here’s a chart for you to solve this question:

2.How to measure machine embroidery hoop size?

Different shape hoops have different measure methods.

2.1 For Round Hoops

 Measure the hoop's diameter directly from the middle section.

2.2 For rectangular hoops

 

Take Sewtalent as an example ,measure the rectangular hoop 's inner width and length in the direction indicated by the arrow. And the data is 3.9 x 3.9 (100 m x 100 m ) ,which means inner hoop size .But actual sewing field is 3.1″x 3.1″(75 x 75 mm),so take a ruler to measure the width and height of your design first, ensure your hoop’s actual sewing field is big enough for your design. 2.3 For hoop length For hoop length, we should from ear to ear and end to end ,which means from the head of left metallic part to the end of the right metallic part .

 For example, this photo below displayed, from the end to end ,and it’s 355 mm which means 14 inch.

  You can click the picture to watch the process. And remember hoop length is for industrial and commercial machines most of time ,check your embroidery machine before measuring your hoop size.

3.How do I choose an embroidery hoop?

You should choose a hoop that a little bigger than your design ,usually 1-2 inch( both length and width ) is enough. For example, If you're stitching a little sunflower which measured 3 inches wide and 4 inches tall. In this case, you should choose a hoop that is a bit larger than the design. A hoop that is 4 to 5 inches wide and 5 to 6 inches tall would be ideal. This extra 1 to 2 inches on both the length and the width will provide enough room to work and ensure the fabric remains taut within the hoop.” In your selection ,you may be confused when you come across the term-actual sewing field .What difference between them ? The inner hoop size gives you an idea of how big a design it can handle, which is different from the actual sewing field ,for example, the picture on the left depicts the size of the inner hoop, while the area within the blue box in the right is the actual sewing field. So, this is why you should measure your design first to select the hoop.

You also can choose an embroidery hoop base on your application The different size can be used for different application ,you can select an embroidery hoop base on your application. Here I take Sewtalent as an example. For small patterns and logos on T-shirts, jeans, sweatshirts, hoodies, polo shirt, bags, baby clothes, detailed work on cuffs, pockets and chest badges , hats, like beanie, bucket hat, you can choose 3.9″x 3.9″(100 x 100 mm) or 5.1″x 5.1″(130 x 130 mm).

  For medium-sized patterns on the front and back of T-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies, polo shirts, jackets, jeans, children’s wear, baby clothes, Medium patterns on larger accessories like backpacks and shoulder bags, pillow, you can choose 6.5″x 6.5″(165 x 165 mm) ,6″x 8″(150 x 200 mm) and 6.9″x 6.9″(175 x 175 mm)

  For long pattern on sleeves, trouser legs, children’s clothing, bags like backpacks, canvas bags, etc. You can choose 7.6″x 2.7″(195 x 70 mm) and 8.7″x 5″(220 x 130 mm).

  For large square or rectangular patterns on sweatshirts, jackets, T-shirts, jeans, polo shirts, pillows, home decoration, tablecloth, blanket, large bag, and embroidery patches,8.5″x 9″(215 x 230 mm),9.5″x 9.5″(240 x 240 mm) and 12.9″x 10″(330 x 255 mm) is suitable.

  For very large patterns on the back of jackets, jeans, apron, rugs, blanket, bath towels, bedspread, and other home decorations.12.4″x 15.6″(315 x 395 mm) and 17″x 15.5″( 430 x 390 mm) are also perfect.

  You can choose different kinds of hoop size according to your actual needs. Usually, the smaller hoop sizes are cheaper than larger ones, you can consider your budget. Hoop sizes have a range from 3.9 inches in diameter to 17 inches ,There is a chart and picture base on Sewtalent ,including inner hoop size and actual sewing field. You just need to compare your design with the actual sewing field.

Inner Hoop Sizes in Inches	Hoop Size in mm	Actual Sewing Field
3.9″x3.9″	100x100mm	3.1″x3.1″(75x75mm)
5.1″x5.1″	130x130mm	4.3″x4.3″(110x110mm)
6.5″x6.5″	165x165mm	5.7″x5.7″(145x145mm)
6″x8″	150x200mm	5.2″x7.2″(130x180mm)
6.9″x6.9″	175x175mm	6.1″x6.1″(155x155mm)
7.6″x2.7″	195x70mm	6.8″x1.9″(175x50mm)
8.7″x5″	220x130mm	7.9″x4.2″(200x110mm)
8.5″x9″	215x230mm	7.7″x8.2″(195x210mm)
9.5″x9.5″	240x240mm	8.7″x8.7″(220x220mm)
12.9″x10″	330x255mm	12.1″x9.2″(310x235mm)
12.6″x3.9″	320x100mm	11.8″x3.1″(300x80mm)
3.9″x12.8″	100x320mm	3.1″x12″(80x300mm)
7.7″x12.5″	195x315mm	6.9″x11.7″(175x295mm)
10.5″x12.4″	265x315mm	9.7″x11.6″(245x295mm)
12″x11.5″	305x295mm	11.2″x10.7″(285x275mm)
12.4″x15.6″	315x395mm	11.6″x14.8″(295x375mm)
17″x15.5″	430x390mm	16.2″x14.7″(410x370mm)

 

4.How to store your machine embroidery hoops?

To store your machine embroidery hoops, you can use Pegboard, Wooden Racks or Plate Rack, Metal Hooks ,Wreath Hooks, File Sorter, Padded Cases, Fabric Bags or Pouches, Key Holder and don’t forget put them in a cool, dry area ,also avoid the direct sunlight.

4.1 Storage tools

4.1.1 Pegboard

   Peg boards are a popular method for store machine embroidery hoops in many situation. They allow for organized hanging of embroidery hoops, maximizing wall space. It’s convenient to look for the hoop size, kits and types directly, improving the efficiency. Moreover ,pegboards make the scratch less ,which also better for storage .Pegboards also can be your best hoops collection display . Although it have lots of advantages, it also has some shortages ,Pegboard require enough space ,if you have many hoops ,it need much more room to store .Also, the hook should be sturdy, or the hoops will slip off and fall ,potential damage risks cause unnecessary cost . Despite the two disadvantages, if you have proper planing and periodic check, This is I recommend most .

4.1.2 Hooks

 Hooks is the most easy way for store hoops. Because you can find and install a hook anywhere in your house or your plant, it also help save space and more suit the practice circumstance. And hooks also can save money and workspace ,which is a cheaper choice. Also, you can buy it at any shop, so anyone can buy it at any where .But only using hook isn’t enough, you also need to do some to protect it , put a cover or place the hook in safe place avoid tension.

4.1.3 Drawer

   Drawer also can help you store and arrange your embroidery hoops ,especially many dividers drawer ,it provide an adjustable and flexibility way to organize .And you can stick the labels .Like the shortage of pegboard, it needs enough workspace, and the limited space in drawer can’t allow many hoops as well as those large size hoops .So it's not suitable for you if your hoops are large and a lot .Additionally, the cost of drawer dividers, especially custom ones, can be quite high. I recommend this storage tool when you don’t use them frequently. And it's dust and dirt proof.

4.1.4 Hanging Closet Organizers

 Hanging closet organizers actually like Pegboard, but it maximize the use of vertical space than Pegboard.

4.1.5 Portable suitcases

 Portable suitcases are especially suitable for small sizes of hoops which made of plastic and wooden, they offer the convenience of easy transportation .You can label the suitcase and put them in different places. When you need to take them go outside, the portable suitcases is the best choice. Failure to store them properly may result in warping, damage, or breakage, which will increase your cost .But the sizes and material (hoops are made of ) are different ,you can choose different storage respond to practical situations. These storage frames can help you better organize your variety hoops, you can use others as well, but there are still some tips .

4.2 Tips

Protecting your embroidery hoop is important to maintain its condition and ensure it continues to provide the best support for your project. So you should do something to prevent hoops from damaging.

4.2.1. Clean regularly

You can use a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and any fabric residue, gently wipe your embroidery hoop. If you need to remove sticky residue from your hoop, dampen a cloth with a little water .

4.2.2 Do not over-tighten the hoop

Over-tightening can lead to deformation or damage, particularly in wooden or plastic hoops. Less tension as much as possible .Ensure the fabric is taut but the hoop is not under excessive strain.

4.2.3 Store place

The hoops especially for magnetic embroidery hoops, put them in a cool and dry place away from the direct sunlight which aim to avoid warping and color loss. It's also a good way to hang them on the wall or in a box to prevent from damaging.

4.2.4 Use a protective cover

If you don't use hoops for a long time ,you can cover them with a cloth or plastic bag to avoid dust and sunlight.

4.2.5 Use labels

Consider to create a labeled kit, which will make it easier for you to search it without looking for it for a lot of time. Make sure each hoop with essential tools ,for example, needle and thread, you can give them a label too, this behavior will improve your efficiency ,especially when you switch on your different embroidery machine. Besides, remember the complement of your embroidery machines, ensuring next time tools and hoops are accessible and ready for your next creative project.

4.3 How to store magnetic embroidery hoops?/How do you store magnetic hoops?

As it is magnetic, the most important point for store is keep your magnetic embroidery hoops in a secure place, away from all electronic devices at least 24 inches. And put them as much as possible in a cool, dry area ,avoid the direct sunlight ,which may cause warp and fade. Moreover, when you store it, you can take off the bottom ring and flip it over ,placing it on the top ring with a slight tilt, this is especially suitable for magnetic embroidery hoops ,don't forget the store tool ,you can use the hook and pegboard to help you .  

 

4.4 How to store plastic machine embroidery hoops?

Generally speaking, storing plastic hoop is similar to magnetic embroidery hoops ,so when you store plastic machine embroidery hoops ,you can use the methods mentioned above ,but also due to its material , you should take temperature into consideration, place it away from heat ,in addition ,don't put something heavy on it which may cause the bent of hoops.

   

Conclusion

This time we introduced the measurement and storage to your embroidery hoops ,at the first part ,we know the importance of hoop size to embroidery ,and the correct way to measure hoop sizes. After you know the basic knowledge of hoop size ,you can select your hoop according to the two methods I have approved. At the second part ,to ensure your hoops maintain their duration and functionality ,we advise to use a dedicated storage frame which can help you accommodate different hoop sizes. So we provide some storage tools and tips for embroiderers. Properly measuring and storing your embroidery hoops can greatly enhance your sewing experience, giving you the confidence to tackle more complex projects without the frustration of mismatched or disorganized supplies, click www.magnetichoop.com to find more information.