How To Measure | How to Choose a Frame | How to Frame
How to Choose your Frame Size
Embroidery hoops vary a LOT!
I know... the package SAID it was a "6 inch" hoop, but it probably isn't actually 6.0000 inches.
Some manufacturers label hoops by the size of the stretched fabric once it's in the hoop. Others measure the outside ring. Some use inches, some use centimeters. And some manufacturers don't seem to measure at all.
Reminder: Here's exactly How to Measure your hoop.
Once you know the diameter of your embroidery hoop, use the chart to find your Best Fit Frame. Your hoop should be within 1/8" of the size in the chart.
Hoop + Frame Matchups:
Hoop Diameter |
Frame Size to order |
Outside Frame Size |
Inside Hole Size |
3.4" | 3" | 5.0" | 3.0" |
4.2" | Nurge No.1 | 4" | 6.0" | 3.8" |
5.25" | 5"SM * | 7.3" | 4.8" |
5.5" | Nurge No.2 | 5"LG | 7.4" | 5.0" |
~6.0" | 6"SM | 8.25" | 5.5" |
6.25" or 6 3/8" | 6"MD * | 8.5" | 5.7" |
6.5" | 6"LG | 8.75" | 6.0" |
6.8" | Nurge No.3 | 6"XL | 8.7" | 6.3" |
7 3/8" | 7" | 9.35" | 6.75" |
7.9" | 8"SM | 10.0" | 7.4" |
8 3/8" | 8"MD * | 10.4" | 7.8" |
8 3/4" | Nurge No.4 | 8"XL | 10.6" | 7.9" |
9 3/8" | 9" | 12.0" | 9.0" |
10 3/8" | 10"SM | 12.4" | 10.0" |
10 5/8" | 10"LG * | 12.5" | 10.0" |
12 1/8" | 12"SM | 14.5" | 11.5" |
12 3/8" | 12"LG * | 14.3" | 11.625" |
14 1/8" | 14"SM * | 16.3" | 13.4 |
14 3/8" | 14"LG | 16.8" | 13.8 |
* These are the most common in a given set of size variations... in case you're "guessing" what size your hoop is.
Outside Frame Size
The face of the wooden frame is between 1" and 1.5" wide. Slim, but enough to cover the hoop's tension screw.
Inside Hole Size
The frame will cover a tiny bit of the fabric around the edge of your work. Best to allow for 1/8" or more around your stitching.
Custom Sizes
Q: "But wait! What if I don't see my hoop size in this list?"
A. Not to worry, you have a few options.
Option 1: Sometimes it's actually easier to swap your hoop to a more common size. I often recommend 'downgrading' your hoop if you have a really nice one. Go get a 'cheapie' at the craft store that is the right size for the frame. No sense in covering up the hefty hoop with a frame. Keep it to stitch in!
Option 2: But maybe you've already finished the back or you received a fully finished hoop as a gift... We can modify the dimensions of a frame to fit your hoop for a small Set Up Fee and the regular cost of the frame/shipping. More detail in the FAQ.
We're always happy to answer questions!