Cross Stitch Guide by Kathleen M Dyer

First, the traditional rule--stitch on Aida using a hoop and stitch on linen "in the hand". In actual practice, people do whatever works best for them. Most who like their fabric taut do tend to avoid hoops in favor of scroll bars or Q-Snaps when working on linen, as hoops may damage the fabric. See section "6. Hoop or Hand?" for the "in-a-hoop vs. in-the-hand" debate. The discussion in this section assumes that you have decided to use a hoop or the like. Tip--Put your project in the hoop or bars backwards. This method is sometimes called having the project...