Embroidery hoop issues

[Allnewtometoo]

Yes my life is that exciting!

I bought a cross stitch kit, it cones with the hoop , and would look nice finished and still in the hoop.

But how on earth do I get the aida in the hoop? Its like the bloody krypton factor. Is it a 2 man job? Are there tips snd tricks i dont know about?

The hoop should have two wooden bits which come apart. Stretch the aida over the smaller bit, and put the bigger hoop back on top of the smaller one. If there's a fastener thingy, tighten it to secure.
I probably haven't explained that very well but there will be plenty of instructions online.

I usually have to kneel on mine because I like the fabric really taut!

Can you post a picture of the frame as there are a few different styles. Square plastic ones are the worst 🙈.

Its round, 2 hoops, a threaded fastening. I've been trying to do what @SparklyCardigan said, but the aida is so stiff its just not possible.

My thumbs are sore

Can you loosen the thread even further. Put the small hoop down on a hard surface, lay aida on top, press small ring down. If the aida is still too stiff, you could hand wash it in cool water first.

The Aida can be quite stiff sometime almost like cardboard, I’ve found the the lower the count the more stiff especially in some of these kits It does soften as you work.

try rolling the fabric a few different ways to soften it a bit, you might have to have the fabric loose in the frame to start with but you will be able to tighten as you work

dont forget to bind the edges of the Aida so it doesn’t fray

Put the larger hoop flat on a table

Lay the fabric over the top of it

Put the smaller hoop over and gently push it down so the fabric moulds into the larger hoop.

If the aida is really stiff try ironing it first, the heat helps soften it.

Thanks all, ive completely loosened the fastening, if its too tight the hoop just pops off at different places, but that's still happening when I start with it too loose. I'll try the rolling, washing , ironing.

Thanks all, ive completely loosened the fastening, if its too tight the hoop just pops off at different places, but that's still happening when I start with it too loose. I'll try the rolling, washing , ironing.

I've done it!! It needs to be tighter really but I can sort that out as ive worked it more, hopefully