Cross Stitch Baby Afghan

by Pat
(Santa Clarita, CA)

I am about to begin a darling baby afghan for my first grandchild -- the afghan material bag indicates that I should not use a hoop as that will distort the fabric.

I have always used some type of frame when cross-stitching -- but I am afraid that scroll bars will not be long enough -- any suggestions?

If I am to cross-stitch directly without any hoop/bars, etc., any suggestions on how to keep the stitches consistently even, taut, etc?

Thank you for any help.