Q-SnapFrame, 8 by 8-Inch

Easy to assemble and use. Keeps fabric tight.

Used for cross stitch

I posted a similar review for the 11" x 11" Q-Snap frame, but there are a few differences between the 11" x 11" and the 8" x 8" frames, and I bought them both, so I will review the 8" one here.The major difference between the two sizes, besides the dimensions, is that while the 11" frame has connector pieces between the corner pieces, the corner pieces attach directly to each other in the 8" size, and the frame comprises only 4 pieces and 4 clamps instead of 8 pieces and 4 clamps. This does not functionally affect the frame once it is assembled, it just means that there are four fewer piece to lose with the 8" x 8" frame.The great things about this frame, regardless of size:1.) Rounded cross section. The PVC pieces are 1" diameter and completely smooth and circular, there aren't any sharp edges to crease or distort your fabric. To adjust the tension in your fabric, just rotate the clip-on pieces inward (to loosen) or outward (to tighten).2.) PVC pipe composition. The PVC pipe is lightweight and strong, so your hands won't get tired from holding a heavy hoop, and your fingers won't cramp like they do after hours of curling around a hoop.3.) Square frame shape. If you work on square pieces, the shape of the Q-Snap frames allows you to position the frame right at the edge of your design, exposing maximal workspace for you to stitch so you don't have to move the frame nearly as often as you would with a hoop. To reach the corner of a square or rectangular piece with a hoop, you have to position the hoop way over to the side to reach the very outside of the corner.4.) Modular design. The pieces are interchangeable with other Q-snap frame pieces, meaning that you can mix and match to create non-standard frame sizes and you can add in extender pieces (sold separately). It is quite easy to find the perfect size Q-snap frame for whatever piece you are stitching!All of these things combine to make this a useful, versatile, durable frame that will make you throw your circular hoops away for good! I love my Q-Snaps!

I'm still working on my first project with this new frame. I like the square, barrel-snap design MUCH better than a hoop, so that's a big plus for me. However, you should know that the piece of fabric you'll need to cut will be bigger with this than with a similarly-sized hoop, since it's the extra fabric at the edges of the piece that hold it in the frame. (That's not such a big deal, though.) It's possible that if I had a bigger piece of fabric to start with, this next problem wouldn't be happening, but I've also noticed that the fabric becomes a bit less taut over time, and I have to rotate the clamp parts outward a bit to re-tighten it. Slightly loose fabric is not the end of the world, and it might be better next time when I cut a bigger piece to begin with, but it's a slight annoyance, so I thought I'd mention it. Other than that, I'm happy!Oh--one more thing. I don't know what other cross-stitchers do with their needle when they put down their stitching for a while, but with a round hoop, I would tuck it into the corner of the fabric (still attached to the thread). Now, with the square frame, I don't have a loose triangular corner anymore, so I've had some trouble finding a good way to store the needle when I need to hit pause. That's a very small concern, and--again--using a bigger piece of fabric next time might help, but now you know.

I've always used either a hoop or nothing at all, and my experiences with using frames for stitching were always frustrating and unproductive. I hated that I either had to sew my fabric in or keep buying adhesive velcro, depending on how the frames were meant to have the fabric attached, and no matter what I couldn't get good tension. I'd actually moved to mostly using perforated plastic (which I still love) purely so I wouldn't have to deal with fabric. My stitching group has been singing the praises of this thing ever since I joined, though, and for the price I figured it couldn't hurt to give it a try. It's surprisingly sturdy, with grooves that keep the different pieces from just swinging around, and although loading the fabric was a bit finicky, I LOVE the fact that I can basically leave the fabric in indefinitely without worrying about it stretching as long as I twist the covers to relax the fabric first. For not having to take the fabric in and out of the hoop each time I put my project down, I can deal with a little inconvenience in the initial set-up. It also may be easier to load the fabric when it's not so cut so close to the size of the frame—for this project, the cloth only just covers the frame, with little to no excess hanging off the sides. Either way, this is a great frame, and well worth the money.

I stitch in hand for the most part but I was starting a HAED and needed a way to manage all the material. So far this has been perfect!

I am in love with this frame! I came across it because of problems with my fabric slipping through my wooden embroidery hoop, and someone recommended this as a solution. After receiving it, I can say that it is the best frame I've ever used, and will now always be my go-to for my cross stitch and embroidery projects.It is easy to assemble, lightweight, and very, very secure. My fabric does not slip at all; it stays taut and in the same place it was in when I snapped the frame on. It's easier to hold than a hoop as well. My hand always used to cramp up using a hoop, because of how I had to hold it. Not with this!A great product and I'd say a must-have for anyone who indulges in sewing projects.

Previously used other types of embroidery aids. Recently tried a small Q-Snap frame as I'm working on a small piece of cross stitch. I'm very happy with it - so easy to use and does a good job of keeping your fabric stretched for easier stitching.