Mini Embroidery Hoops: How to choose the best tiny hoop and how to use them

If you’re a budding stitcher with a love for all things mini, you’re in for a treat. Let’s explore the world of mini embroidery hoops together! 

These tiny frames open a world of creative possibilities, allowing you to craft charming projects that pack a punch without overwhelming your stitching space. Whether you’re new to embroidery or an experienced stitcher looking for a fun and refreshing challenge, mini hoops are a delightful addition to your drawer of embroidery supplies.

Why choose Mini Embroidery Hoops?

Mini hoop embroidery is a delightful way to explore creativity on a smaller canvas. The best part? These tiny hoops are perfect for beginners! If you’ve hesitated to start larger projects, mini hoops offer a less intimidating entry point. You can experiment with various stitches, patterns, and color combinations without committing to a more significant undertaking.

On the other hand, experienced stitchers can challenge themselves with detailed small patterns and embroider with one strand of embroidery floss for a more elaborate look.

Getting Started with Mini Hoops

Before diving into stitching, let’s talk about mini hoops and how to choose the best one for your project.

Mini hoops, Miniature hoops, or Tiny hoops are made to display tiny embroidery pieces. They come in all shapes and sizes – round hoops, ovals, square-shaped, star-shaped, hexagons, or heart-shaped hoops. You can also come upon the hoops with the bunny years or in the bird’s shape.

It is important to note that these small hoops are not created for embroidery but for displaying it.

Usually, the mini hoop is made from wood, but you can also find plastic or metal ones. 

The constructions of the mini hoops vary. Some hoops have three parts: the outer ring, the inner wooden piece, and the outer wooden piece, which is a bit bigger and is designed to cover the back, and a mini bolt and a screw for tightening. Other hoops are made of two parts and do not have a tightening screw.

Things to keep in mind when choosing a mini-hoop

• What is the size of your embroidery? The sizes of the mini hoops vary from 1 inch to 2,5 inches (2,5 cm – 6 cm). Choose the size that fits your embroidery the best. 
• What is the shape of your embroidery? Is it oval, round, or square? Choose the mini hoop accordingly.
• What is the final purpose of the embroidered piece framed in a mini hoop? Miniature hoops are fabulous for making mini brooches, keyrings, pendants, earrings, or Christmas tree ornaments. Some mini hoops are created to become pendants, and others are keyrings, so getting a tiny hoop suitable for your project goals makes sense.
• The construction of the mini hoop. Small frames with a screw mechanism will allow you to manage the tension of the embroidery better. On the other hand, the mini hoops with no tension mechanism usually look better.