I use embroidery frames to keep my projects from distorting as I work on them. I'm in the process of sourcing a stand/frame large enough to hold my full Cluny Tapestry piece while I work on it. To give you an idea of how challenging this is -- the piece is 5' long by 3' high. I had been using a large wooden scroll frame originally meant for quilting. It broke in a matter of months, the wood simply splintered. I'm looking for something more sturdy now. In the process I've come across some good descriptions of the types of hoops and frames available that I thought I'd share with the blog.
Here is a blog with a good set of definitions of the various types of frames.
Mary Corbet has a great piece on frames and hoops and where to find them. Note that the post is old so many of the links in the comments no longer work. She also had a great post about Evertight stitch bar frames
I use a Qsnap frame for all of my cross stitch and embroidery work. Even though I often have to readjust my fabric to keep it taut, I like it best for work with linen, which can easily distort if pulled too tight. It is very sturdy and I don't have to worry about it snagging the fabric or leaving marks, no matter how long I leave my fabric in the frame. At the moment I'm still reviewing my options, but this is most likely the frame I'm going to buy and use to finish my Cluny Tapestry.
