Finishing Embroidery in a Hoop

Finishing embroidery in a hoop is a popular option. Hoops are nice looking frames and they come in many sizes and shapes.

It is easy to customize hoops by painting them or wrapping in fabric or tape.

I finished some Christmas ornaments in tiny hoops, but the process is the same regardless of what size hoop you are using.

See it All

Below you will find:

  • supply list
  • video tutorial
  • step-by-step written tutorial with pictures

Supplies and Tools

Everything you need to make this project

embroidered snowflake on blue fabric.
  • finished embroidery piece
  • backing fabric
  • hoop for hanging
  • tacky glue

Video

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Finishing embroidery in a hoop

Tutorial

See each step in the process, with images to help guide you.

Put the fabric in the hoop

Place the embroidery and the backing fabric wrong sides together, then put the fabric pieces into the hoop, centring the embroidery.

Check both sides to make sure the embroidery is aligned the way you want. Once you move to the next step, you won’t be able to change it.

hoop with embroidery and backing fabric.

What hoop to use?

You can use the hoop you used for the embroidery or a different hoop. I like to use a high-quality hoop for stitching and then discount hoops for finishing.


Trim the excess fabric

With fabric scissors, trim away the excess fabric from the hoop.

trimming excess fabric from hoop.

You will probably need to trim it a couple of times. The first time you will remove large pieces, then come back and tidy up the edge.

close trim of fabric in hoop.

The fabric won’t be totally flush to the hoop. Leave about 1/16″ (1mm) of fabric extending beyond the hoop.


Seal the fabric

Scratch the exposed fabric to fray the edges.

scratch the edge of the fabric to fray.

Rub a thin layer of glue on the fabric and hoop to seal the fabric and secure it in place.

spreading glue on the fabric edge.

The glue will dry clear and then it is done.

letting the glue dry on embroidery hoop.

Finished piece

Embroidery in a hoop can be hung on a wall or displayed on a stand.

embroidered pumpkin.

This is a great way to showcase your work.


Other finishing options

There are lots of other ways to finish your embroidery piece. Here are some more choices.

Felt Backing

hand embroidered wreath ornament.

Backing it with felt give a frame-less minimalist option.


Piping Trim Edge

ornament with hand-stitched Christmas tree.

Piping trim gives a little frame.


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