Conditioning a wooden hoop

by Leeann
(Nebraska)

Is there a way to condition the wooden hoop? It is probably over 40 years old, and seems very dry. I always use a wooden hoop because I think it holds much better, but recently my go-to hoop is not holding well at all, no matter how much I tighten it. Advice?

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Dried out wood
by: Anonymous

If the wood has dried out just soak it in cold water. Overnight should do it. I know it sounds simple but it works for anything made out of wood.
When you remove it from the water simply dry it with a cloth.

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Wrap the Entire Hoop
by: Tamara Suttle

When you speak about "wrapping the hoop," are you saying to wrap the ENTIRE bottom hoop or are you meaning to go around a single spot once or twice with the fabric or tape?

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conditioning wood hoops
by: Sharron

I too use only wood hoops and have had the not tightening problem. I found a product called Hoop Grip at my local quilt shop and it has proven to be a blessing. It is a tiny (1/4") tape that you peel and stick to your inside hoop. Cost about ten dollars for a large roll.

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wrapping hoop
by: Anonymous

the best way, i find, to get your hoop to hold tight is to wrap the bottom hoop with fabric. just use a strip of cotton cloth and wrap around the hoop and secure with a few stitches at the end. it's worked for me for years.

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Take care!
by: Carol

Leeann, I would be wary of putting anything on the wood, as it would be likely to stain the embroidery fabric afterwards, unless you leave it for a lengthy time before using it again.

However, something like a teak oil, or perhaps even beeswax may rejuvenate the wood.

Alternatively, you could wrap the inner ring of the hoop with a finger bandage, bias binding or even cling film (saran wrap?) to prevent the wood from touching your work.

Does anyone else have any ideas?

Regards,

Carol

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