Embroidery hoops
Embroidery Hoop Sizes: Machine Fields and Hand Hoops Explained
Quick answer
The most common machine embroidery hoops are 4 x 4 inches (100 x 100 mm) for monograms and patches, 5 x 7 inches (130 x 180 mm) for towels and totes, and 6 x 10 inches (160 x 260 mm) for pillow fronts and quilt blocks. For hand embroidery, choose a hoop 1 to 2 inches larger than the design.
Machine embroidery hoops
| Hoop (in) | mm | Typical projects | Examples | Verified machines that fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 x 4 | 100 x 100 | Monograms, Patches and appliques, Small freestanding lace, Baby items and pockets | Brother SE700 | 27 |
| 5.5 x 5.5 | 140 x 140 | Quilt block motifs, Coasters, Medium monograms | Janome Memory Craft 500E (SQ14b hoop) | 19 |
| 5 x 7 | 130 x 180 | Tote bags, Towels, Shirt fronts, In-the-hoop zipper pouches | Brother PE800 | 21 |
| 5.5 x 7.9 | 140 x 200 | Towels, Bags, Larger applique | Janome Memory Craft 500E (RE20b hoop) | 17 |
| 6 x 10 | 160 x 260 | Jacket backs (small), Quilt blocks, Pillow fronts, Larger lettering | Brother Innov-is NQ1700E | 14 |
| 7.9 x 7.9 | 200 x 200 | Quilt blocks, Pillow fronts, Large square designs | Janome Memory Craft 400E, Janome Memory Craft 500E (SQ20b hoop) | 13 |
| 7.9 x 11 | 200 x 280 | Quilt blocks, Sweatshirt fronts, Large applique | Janome Memory Craft 500E (RE28b hoop) | 10 |
| 8 x 12 | 200 x 300 | Jacket backs, Large quilt blocks, Wall hangings, Commercial jobs | Brother PR680W (6-needle) | 8 |
| 9.5 x 14 | 240 x 360 | Jacket backs, Large quilt blocks, Multi-part designs without rehooping | Brother Stellaire Innov-is XE2 | 4 |
| 10 5/8 x 16 | 272 x 408 | Large wall art, Full jacket backs, Edge-to-edge quilt sections | Brother Luminaire Innov-is XP3 | 1 |
Hand embroidery hoop sizes
| Hoop | Typical uses |
|---|---|
| 3 in | Tiny motifs, Ornaments, Framing mini pieces in the hoop |
| 4 in | Small motifs, Monograms, Framed mini embroidery, Kids first projects |
| 5 in | Small designs, Beginner kits, Clothing embellishment |
| 6 in | Most beginner embroidery kits, Everyday surface embroidery, Hoop art |
| 7 in | Medium designs, Hoop art, Punch needle (small) |
| 8 in | Medium to large designs, Tea towels, Pillowcase borders |
| 10 in | Large designs, Cross stitch on Aida, Punch needle |
| 12 in | Large embroidery, Hand quilting small projects, Wall hoop art |
| 14 in | Hand quilting (lap hoop), Large tapestry-style pieces |
- Choose a hoop 1 to 2 in larger than the design area so the stitching sits inside the ring.
- Remove work from the hoop between sessions to avoid hoop marks.
- Bind an inner wooden ring with cotton tape for better grip on slippery fabric.
Researched from manufacturer specifications, owner manuals and verified owner reviews, not hands-on testing, and not professional advice. As an Amazon Associate, Cozy Stitchery earns from qualifying purchases.