HoopMaster by Midwest Products, Inc.

Pictures of Baby Lock and Brother Tubular Embroidery machines

If you own a Brother or Baby Lock tubular embroidery machine—whether it’s a tubular single needle, 6-needle, or 10-needle—you already know how critical proper hooping is for clean, professional embroidery results. Traditional hoops often create challenges when working with thick, bulky, or hard-to-hoop items. That’s where Magnetic Mighty Hoops come in.

At Midwest Products, Inc. we specialize in helping you hoop smarter, not harder—with tools that protect your machine, increase efficiency, and open the door to embroidering more products with confidence.

Why Choose Magnetic Mighty Hoops?

Mighty Hoops patented design includes powerful embedded magnets that securely hold your fabric without the need to adjust tension knobs or clamp down with force. Here’s why they’re better than traditional hoops:

Effortless Hooping: Simply lay your garment and snap the hoop in place—no tugging or stretching fabric.
Time-Saving: Hoop faster with consistent results, which increases productivity in home or business setups.
Versatility: Easily hoop thick items like jackets, bags, leather, and sweatshirts.
Reduces Operator Fatigue: No more fighting with tight hoops or sore wrists from over-clamping.

Will Magnetic Hoops Mess Up My Machine?

We hear this question a lot—and the answer is no.

Mighty Hoops are safe to use with your Brother and Baby Lock machines. They’re specifically designed and tested for compatibility with common tubular embroidery machine brands.

In fact, many Brother and Baby Lock machine suppliers sell them, and they’re used in commercial embroidery shops and home embroidery businesses throughout the world. Mighty Hoops have become the go-to standard for many.

The Tubular Support: Protects Your Machine’s Arms

When embroidering heavy garments or thick items, one worry is the excess weight of the garment or item pulling down on the machine’s arms. Over time, this strain can cause wear on your machine.

That’s why we highly recommend the Tubular Hoop Support, a tool designed to slide onto the bobbin arm of your machine and support the garment’s weight while stitching. It:

Prevents sagging or drag on your hoop during embroidery
Protects your machine’s arm from strain
Improves stitch quality by keeping the hoop level
Stops lightweight frames, like Durkee Frames, from bouncing and causing poor stitch outs

Whether you’re embroidering a jacket, blanket, or backpack, the Tubular Support keeps your machine safe and your results clean.

https://hoopmaster.com/product/mighty-hoop/brother-pr/mh-support-pr

Mighty Hoop Sizes Equivalent to Traditional Brother/Baby Lock Hoops

If you’re wondering which Mighty Hoop sizes closely match the hoops that came with your Brother or Baby Lock machine, here’s a quick reference chart to help:

Traditional Hoop Size (Brother/Baby Lock)	Equivalent Mighty Hoop Size
4” x 4”	5.5” Mighty Hoop
5” x 7”	6.25×8.25” Mighty Hoop
6” x 10”	8×9” Mighty Hoop
8” x 12”	8” x 13” Mighty Hoop

Note: Mighty Hoops are not limited to these sizes. We carry a wide range to fit every embroidery niche.

Easy Bracket Compatibility

Every Mighty Hoop comes with the correct brackets for your specific machine. Just let us know the brand and model of your Brother or Baby Lock machine when ordering, and we’ll make sure we send the correct brackets—no need to modify anything.

What size Mighty Hoops fit my Brother / Baby Lock Embroidery Machine?

Single Needle Tubular Brother & Baby Lock Machines will fit:

4.375” Round Mighty Hoop
4.25” Mighty Hoop
4×6” Mighty Hoop
5.5” Mighty Hoop
5×10” Mighty Hoop
6.5” Mighty Hoop
6.25×8.25” Mighty Hoop
7.25” Mighty Hoop
7.5×11” Special note- If you have the normal PR1 machine your approximate sewing area will be 6.5 tall x 8″ wide (165mm x 203mm), you will not be able to use the full width of the hoop. Your machine is limited to 8″ in width. If you have the new PR1X machine released in late 2023, your approximate sewing area will be 6.5 x 10″ (165mm x 254mm). Always trace your design to make sure it fits.
8×9” Mighty Hoop
9×3” Mighty Hoop
9×4.25” Mighty Hoop
9×5” Mighty Hoop
9×6” Mighty Hoop

Approx sew field for PRS 1-8×9”- 7.6x 8”

https://hoopmaster.com/products/mighty-hoop/brother-pr1

FOR NEWER MODELS ONLY OF THE PR1X and BABY LOCK CAPELLA MODELS ONLY:

8×13” Mighty Hoop

https://hoopmaster.com/product/mighty-hoop/brother-pr1/mh-pr1x-813

Six Needle Brother and Baby Lock Machines will fit:

4.375” Round Mighty Hoop
4.25” Mighty Hoop
4.25×13” Horizontal Mighty Hoop
4×6” Mighty Hoop
5.5” Mighty Hoop
5×10” Mighty Hoop
6.5” Mighty Hoop
6.25×8.25” Mighty Hoop
7.25” Mighty Hoop
7.5×11” Mighty Hoop
8×9” Mighty Hoop
8×13” Mighty Hoop
9×3” Mighty Hoop
9×4.25” Mighty Hoop
9×5” Mighty Hoop
9×6” Mighty Hoop

https://hoopmaster.com/products/mighty-hoop/brother-pr

Ten Needle Brother and Baby Lock Machines will fit:

4.375” Round Mighty Hoop
4.25” Mighty Hoop
4.25×13” Horizontal Mighty Hoop
4×6” Mighty Hoop
5.5” Mighty Hoop
5×10” Mighty Hoop
6.5” Mighty Hoop
6.25×8.25” Mighty Hoop
7.25” Mighty Hoop
7.5×11” Mighty Hoop
8×9” Mighty Hoop
8×13” Mighty Hoop
9×3” Mighty Hoop
9×4.25” Mighty Hoop
9×5” Mighty Hoop
9×6” Mighty Hoop
14×14” Flat Mighty Hoop (NO Tubular items, Split software/design required)

https://hoopmaster.com/products/mighty-hoop/brother-pr10

Ready to Upgrade?

Magnetic Mighty Hoops are more than just an accessory—they’re a game-changer for anyone who wants faster hooping, more versatility, and machine-safe durability.

Like we always say, “Let the Magnets do the Work!”

Browse our full collection at www.hoopmaster.com and experience the difference Mighty Hoops make.

Have questions? Our onsite customer support team is happy to help you find the right hoop sizes and support tools for your Brother or Baby Lock embroidery machine.

Article on why you should invest in Mighty Hoops

General

Stop the Hooping Struggle: How Magnetic Mighty Hoops End the Battle of Embroidery Hooping

July 8, 20250

Tired of the traditional hooping tug-of-war? Feel like you’re wrestling garments into place, especially thick or heavy items? The short video “Investing in the HoopMaster & Mighty Hoops” perfectly captures the frustration embroiderers face—and delivers the easy solution: No more fighting your hoop. Magnetic Mighty Hoops make embroidery hooping fast, precise, and pain-free.

Why Traditional Hooping Feels Like a Struggle?

Using classic screw-based embroidery hoops often means:

Constant tension adjustments, especially with changing fabric thickness.
Hoop burn or stretch marks on delicate or plush materials.
Wrist and hand strain, especially in commercial settings.
Misalignment, leading to crooked designs and production hiccups.

These everyday pains are exactly why embroiderers are switching to magnetic Mighty Hoops —and why should you?

Introducing magnetic Mighty Hoops: The Instant Hooping Revolution!

In the video, the narrator asks, “Why continue the endless fight?” Then demonstrates how the patented magnetic Mighty Hoop snaps together instantly, gripping soft to thick layers—denim, towels, jackets—without fuss. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/5cAEx-Zjzwk

Core Mighty Hoop Magnetic Embroidery Hoop Benefits:

Zero Tension Adjustments: Magnets automatically adapt to any thickness.
Hoop Burn Be Gone: No outward ring means no fabric scorching or distortion.
Ergonomic & Safe: No pinching clips, fast magnetic alignment, gentle on hands .
Compatibility & Precision: Works with nearly all machine brands and HoopMaster fixtures for perfect alignment every time.

Learn more about the benefits of using Mighty Hoops (magnetic hoops for machine embroidery) and what other people have to say about Mighty Hoops. https://hoopmaster.com/about

Real Results – What Users Are Seeing

Embroiderers using magnetic Mighty Hoops report:

Dramatic time savings—no wrestling hoops, quick setup each time.
Consistent, straight designs—especially vital for commercial runs.
Reduced hand fatigue—everyday hooping becomes a smoother, easier process.

HoopMaster and Mighty Hoops’s magnetic hooping system seamlessly extends these benefits to high-production commercial embroidery environments and home embroidery. businesses alike. Don’t be fooled by illegal Chinese copies, like MaggieFrame, SewTalent, MagnaHoops, or SewTech Magnetic Embroidery Hoops, made with inferior materials and long shipping times. Interested in learning about Midwest Products, Inc’s. patents? Click here to find out more. https://hoopmaster.com/patents

Invest in HoopMaster and Mighty Hoops today! www.hoopmaster.com. Our embroidery hooping supplies will make your embroidery hooping process seamless, and most orders ship same or next day.

How-to's

How to Avoid Hoop Burn

June 30, 20250

Say Goodbye to Hoop Burn: Why Mighty Hoops Are the Burn-Free Solution for Embroidery

We’ve all been there—you finish a beautiful embroidery design, unhoop the fabric, and boom… hoop burn. That awful ring around your design where the fabric was pinched too tight. Whether it’s a plush sweatshirt, a soft tee, or a specialty garment, traditional embroidery hoops can leave behind unwanted marks that ruin the look (and the customer experience).

But here’s the good news: Magnetic Mighty Hoops have entered the chat—and hoop burn is officially canceled.

What Is Embroidery Hoop Burn?

Hoop burn happens when a traditional hoop—especially one with a tight outer ring—compresses the fabric so much that it leaves a permanent mark or crease. It’s most common on:

Soft cotton or tri-blend T-shirts
Sweatshirts and hoodies
Plush fabrics like fleece or minky
Any garment that’s sensitive to pressure or stretch

In short, hoop burn is what happens when your fabric says, “Ouch.”

Why Mighty Hoops Don’t Cause Hoop Burn

Unlike traditional hoops that pinch, twist, and pull the material to stay in place, Mighty Hoops use magnetic force to gently but firmly secure your fabric. That means:

✅ No over-compression
✅ No harsh pressure points
✅ No weird rings left behind

Instead of squishing the fabric, Mighty Hoops hold it evenly and effortlessly—perfect for delicate materials and high-stakes projects where appearance matters.

How It Works: The Magnetic Advantage

Mighty Hoops are designed with powerful rare-earth magnets that snap together around your fabric and stabilizer. The pressure is distributed evenly across the hoop, which keeps the material flat without crushing the fibers.

That’s why you can use them on everything from thick Carhartt jackets to soft onesies and come away with a clean, professional finish—every single time.

Traditional Hoops vs. Mighty Hoops

Feature	Traditional Hoop	Mighty Hoop
Hoop Burn Risk	High	Practically zero
Pressure Points	Tight rings pinch fabric	Magnetic grip holds evenly
Time to Hoop	Slow, requires adjustment	Fast snap-and-go
Wrist/Hand Strain	Common with tight hoops	Minimal with ergonomic design
Best for Plush or Stretchy?	Not ideal	Perfectly suited

Real Talk: You’ll Never Go Back

Once you hoop a T-shirt, sweatshirt, or jacket with a Mighty Hoop, you’ll instantly notice the difference:

No visible rings or marks after unhooping
No need to steam out pressure lines
No tug-of-war with screw-tightening hoops
Just smooth, centered embroidery that looks professional

It’s a game-changer for custom apparel shops, high-volume embroiderers, or hobbyists who just want things to look perfect without the stress.

Pair with a HoopMaster Station for Even More Magic

Want to avoid hoop burn and get perfect placement every time? Use Mighty Hoops with the HoopMaster Station and adjustable fixture. It lines up your garments perfectly and helps you hoop faster—without the guesswork, stretching, or misalignment that can cause damage to your fabric.

Ready to Ditch Hoop Burn for Good?

Explore the full lineup of Mighty Hoops and placement tools at www.hoopmaster.com

Your embroidery should turn heads—not leave marks. Let Mighty Hoops help you stitch clean, smooth, and stress-free.

tutorial for velveteen blanket embroidery

How-to's

Velveteen Blanket Embroidery Tutorial (Step-by-Step with Mighty Hoop)

May 1, 20250

Looking to embroider a thick, luxurious velveteen blanket with professional results? In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll show you how to hoop and stitch a blanket using the HoopMaster Station, Adjustable Fixture, and a 4.25×13” Horizontal Mighty Hoop. This method is perfect for thick or delicate materials and tubular embroidery machines.

🎥 Watch the full video tutorial below

Tools Used in This Tutorial

Step 1: Set Up Your HoopMaster Station

Start by adjusting the HoopMaster Station to lie flat (you can hoop at an angle, but flat is easier for thick fabrics like blankets).

Flip the station over.
Loosen the thumbscrews and wingnuts.
Push the legs down until flat.
Tighten everything back in place.
Flip the board right-side-up.

Place the Adjustable Fixture on the station. We positioned ours above the number “8” on the board for reference.

Step 2: Secure Your Mighty Hoop

We’re using the 4.25×13” Horizontal Mighty Hoop, ideal for tubular embroidery machines. If you’re unsure whether it fits your machine, check our website or give us a call.

To install:

Insert the bottom hoop ring into the lower fixture.
Slide the top piece of the fixture down to hold it snugly.
Open the magnetic flaps for hooping access.

Step 3: Choose the Right Stabilizers

We used:

Two layers of tearaway stabilizer (for stability and easy removal).
One layer of water-soluble stabilizer on top (prevents stitches from sinking into soft fabric).

Because the back of the blanket will be visible, tearaway gives a cleaner finish than cutaway on this thin material.

Step 4: Mark Your Design Placement

For accurate placement:

Use placement dots to mark the center.
Measure from the bottom of the rope design to the edge of the blanket (ours was ~11″).
Place your center mark at around 5.5″, then adjust it to sit perfectly within the rope’s knot.
Align this mark with the centerline of the station.

Step 5: Hooping the Blanket

Once your stabilizers are clipped in:

Pull the blanket onto the station.
Align the placement mark with the station’s centerline.
Feel for the Mighty Hoop’s inner ring to make sure it’s centered.
Remove the dot and lay the water-soluble stabilizer over the hoop area.
Press the top ring of the Mighty Hoop into place.

Step 6: Embroidering the Design

Mount the hooped blanket onto your machine.
Drape the rest of the blanket over a chair to relieve arm weight.
Flip your design 180° before stitching (since it’s hooped upside-down).
Always run a trace to ensure your design fits inside the hoop.

Step 7: Cleanup and Finishing Touches

Once embroidery is complete:

Remove the hoop from your machine.
Tear away the water-soluble stabilizer.
Use tweezers or steam to remove any small bits stuck between letters.
Tear away the stabilizer on the back.
Trim any loose threads.

And that’s it — your embroidered velveteen blanket is complete!

Whether you’re personalizing a gift or tackling a thick fabric project, the HoopMaster and Mighty Hoop system makes the hooping process fast, clean, and frustration-free. This tutorial featured a special gift for Captain Kate McCue, but the techniques apply to any embroidery project involving dense designs and soft materials.

🛳️ Going on a cruise? A custom embroidered blanket makes a fantastic gift!

Need Help or Want to Order?

📞 Call us: (262) 257-0930 (Mon–Fri, 8:00am–4:30pm CST)
🌐 Shop all HoopMaster & Mighty Hoop products

How-to's

How to Hoop Thick Jackets with Magnetic Hoops

May 15, 20250

Embroidering thick jackets like Carhartt, canvas, and insulated workwear can be one of
the trickiest jobs in commercial embroidery. Traditional hoops often struggle with the
bulk, and misalignment is common.

But with the magnetic Mighty Hoop and the HoopMaster System, hooping thick
garments becomes consistent, accurate, and far less frustrating.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to properly hoop heavyweight jackets
using the 5.5″ Mighty Hoop, the 5.5″ Fixture with FreeStyle Arm, and other helpful
accessories.

What You’ll Need to Hoop a Thick Jacket With Magnetic Hoops

Using the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s the setup we recommend when
hooping thick or insulated outerwear:
 5.5″ Mighty Hoop® – A strong magnetic hoop that can clamp over seams,
zippers, and heavy fabrics without excessive pressure.
 5.5″ Fixture with Freestyle Arm – Holds the hoop steady and allows for
consistent placement.
 Portable Mounting Base – A lightweight, compact surface to stabilize the
Fixture during the hooping process.
 T-Square Attachment – Helps ensure exact placement from garment to
garment, using fixed reference points.

These tools are designed to work together, making hooping not just possible—but fast
and repeatable.

These tools are designed to work together, making hooping not just possible—but fast and repeatable.

Step 1: Marking Placement for Repeatability

If you’re hooping the left or right chest area, start by determining logo placement on
the first jacket of each size. Getting this step right means you won’t have to measure
again for every jacket.
Here’s how to mark and measure efficiently:

Pick repeatable reference points—for example, the base of the collar or the
edge of the pocket.
Unzip or unbutton the jacket so it lays flat.
Place it sideways on the fixture so the left or right chest is accessible.
Mark the logo placement using a washable fabric pen or placement sticker.
Use the placement mark to align your T-square and Fixture measurement
lines so you can repeat this placement on future jackets of the same size.

By locking these placements in, you reduce human error and save significant time when
hooping large orders of multiple garments.

Step 2: Adjust the Fixture for Heavy Fabrics

The HoopMaster Fixture includes a blue sliding clip that affects how the lower hoop
ring releases during hooping. For thick jackets, move this clip to the shorter slot
position.
 This change allows the bottom ring of the hoop to easily attach to the top ring
when hooping.
 Using the blue clip in this position is recommended for any garment heavier than
a basic sweatshirt, including canvas, denim, quilted linings, and Carhartt-style
workwear.
 This position keeps the bottom ring from getting stuck in the Fixture when you
remove the hoop.
This small adjustment is one of the easiest ways to avoid frustration when hooping thick
materials.

Step 3: Hooping the Jacket

With your placement marked and your fixture adjusted; it’s time to hoop the jacket:

Place the lower ring of the Mighty Hoop into the fixture. Make sure the warning
labels are facing down.
Lay the jacket on top, positioning the placement mark roughly in the center of
where the hoop will go.
Align your reference points:
o Horizontal: Match the jacket edge with a known edge like the backing
material holder.
o Vertical: Use the zero point of the T-square and line it up with a fixed
part of the jacket (e.g., the collar seam).
Attach the top hoop ring to the Fixture arms and press down to engage the
magnets.

**Pro Tip: Don’t stress if your jacket doesn’t align with one of the printed ruler lines. Just use a straight edge, like the inner edge of the backing holder, to create a custom measurement you can replicate.

Step 4: Removing the Hooped Jacket Safely

Thick garments can put stress on the hoop, so it’s critical to remove the jacket without damaging the hoop or shifting the garment inside it.

Follow these steps:

Never pull from the top ring alone—the jacket’s weight can cause the bottom ring to fall off.
Instead, reach under the hoop, grab the bottom ring, and lift both rings up and out together.
Once off the fixture, flip the jacket over and check the back for any puckering or bubbles in the lining.

If the lining looks loose or uneven, it’s best to rehoop the item for a cleaner result.

Step 5: Prepare for the Embroidery Machine

Before stitching, make a few final checks:

Hold the top and bottom of the hoop firmly when transporting to the machine.
Rotate your design 90° in your embroidery software to match the sideways hoop orientation.
Support the weight of the jacket once hooped—don’t let it drag during stitching. Too much pull can cause the bottom ring to come loose, especially if embroidering close to an edge or seam.

Investing in a proper hooping setup and following these best practices ensures your stitch-outs are clean, centered, and securely hooped.

What About Tricky Areas Like Zippers or Pockets?

Some designs require placement near challenging features like:

Chest pockets
Heavy seams
Metal zippers
Multi-layer panels

Thanks to the strength of the Mighty Hoop® magnets, these problem spots are usually not a problem at all.

You can hoop over most seams and zippers with no issue.
The magnetic pressure adjusts evenly, reducing risk of damage or misalignment.
The HoopMaster system gives you enough control to work around features while keeping alignment consistent.

Final Thoughts

Hooping thick jackets doesn’t have to be a challenge. With the right equipment, repeatable measurement techniques, and a few smart adjustments, you can dramatically speed up your production and reduce embroidery headaches.

If you’re ready to take the hassle out of hooping heavyweight garments, explore the tools featured in this tutorial:

Shop Mighty Hoop
Learn More about Hooping

5 Questions we always get asked about our products!

General

Our Top 5 Questions – Asked and Answered!

June 20, 20250

Question 1. Can I just buy the Mighty Hoop by itself?

Yes, of course! Mighty Hoops are magnetic embroidery hoops that grip fabric using powerful magnets, making it ideal for anything from thick garments to delicate materials. They reduce hooping-related strain on hands and wrists caused by manual adjusting of traditional hoops for different fabrics. They also lessen the chance for hoop burn. However, the HoopMaster Station and Mighty Hoop Fixtures are extremely helpful when you are looking to achieve fast, easy, consistent, and accurate placement, especially when hooping multiples. Not sure what is right for you? Click here to learn more. https://hoopmaster.com/about/hoopmaster-vs-mighty-hoop for a breakdown of our HoopMaster Magnetic Hooping System and Mighty Hoop capabilities.

Question 2. I love Mighty Hoops! I want to embroider caps now, what Mighty Hoops do you have for caps?

Currently, we do not make a magnetic Mighty Hoop for cap fronts. We do make a special magnetic Mighty Hoop designed for short sleeves and some cap backs. Although less known than our traditional Mighty Hoops, the 4.375” Round magnetic Mighty Hoop offers something a bit different. This hoop has less magnetic strength, as it was designed with smaller magnets, allowing it to have a smaller outer ring. This makes it easier to get into tight areas like short sleeves and some cap backs. It will not hoop thick bags, workwear, leather, or other difficult fabrics. The 4.25″ square magnetic Mighty Hoop would be a better option for that type of embroidery. The 4.375″ Round Mighty Hoop will fit most commercial embroidery machines, including the Brother and Baby Lock 1, 6 and 10 needle tubular machines. Looking for more information on this unique Mighty Hoop? Click Here https://hoopmaster.com/?s=4.375&post_type=product&type_aws=true

Questions 3. Do you do embroidery yourselves?

Although we no longer make embroidered goods to sell, we are constantly up to date with the embroidery industry’s latest machines, supplies and trends. We also do embroidery onsite for new product development and educational videos. In the 80’s we were called Midwest Embroidery and did contract embroidery and embroidery digitizing for more than 15 years before starting Midwest Products, Inc., home to the HoopMaster Hooping System and the Magnetic Embroidery Hoop, Mighty Hoop. You can learn more about our history here. https://hoopmaster.com/about

Question 4: How fast do you ship?

We obviously ship crazy fast! Most orders ship same or next day! Midwest Products, Inc. not only designs, patents, engineers, and produces its products in the USA, it also ships directly from its facility in Germantown, Wisconsin. We know how important it is to have the right embroidery tools for the job when you need them. Our shipping team takes great pride in accurately, efficiently, and quickly delivering your order. We use multiple shipping providers to make sure your HoopMaster and magnetic Mighty Hoops are delivered as quickly as possible. We offer Next Day Air options, and with ample notice, offer customer pick up at our facility. If you are overseas, don’t worry! We have multiple HoopMaster and Mighty Hoop resellers worldwide just waiting to assist you. Not sure where there is a reseller in your area? Just email us at info@hoopmaster.com and someone from our amazing Customer Support Team will assist you. Don’t be fooled by illegal Chinese copies, like MaggieFrame, SewTalent, MagnaHoops, or SewTech Magnetic Embroidery Hoops promoting fast shipping. These products are shipped from China illegally to the US and ship the opposite of fast. Interested in learning about our patents? Click here to find out more. https://hoopmaster.com/patents

Question 5. My hoops are jumping together and shifting my placement and sometimes my garment doesn’t come off my Station. How do I prevent this?

A: We have an answer for that too! Our engineers put time, effort and years of embroidery knowledge behind all our products, including the patented Blue Clip! We have created a WHOLE YouTube video explaining this little piece of wonder to solve both issues. Watch it here. https://youtu.be/1gF3XA1rx3g

Answers to the Top 5 Questions in this video

Have a question you’d like answered? Reach out to us at info@hoopmaster.com or on our socials! Be sure to follow us on our channels for all the latest news and product information.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/HoopMaster2

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mightyhoop

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hoopmastermightyhoop/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hoopmastermightyhoop

Happy Hooping!

How-to's

The Complete Guide to Choosing the Perfect Embroidery Hoop

April 2, 20250

Embroidery hoops are one of the most crucial tools in machine embroidery. Selecting the right hoop size can make the difference between a perfect project and a frustrating failure. This detailed guide will walk you through the basics of embroidery hoops, key factors to consider when choosing the proper size, helpful tips for working with different hoop sizes, and accessories to elevate your embroidery experience.

Understanding Machine Embroidery Hoops

Machine embroidery hoops stabilize fabric during embroidery, ensuring it remains taut and in place. This prevents puckering and shifting, which can compromise intricate designs. Hoops come in various shapes and sizes, with rectangular and circular being the most common. The choice of hoop size affects the embroidery’s quality, precision, and ease of handling.

What is the Most Popular Embroidery Hoop Size?

The most popular embroidery hoop size is the 5.5-inch square hoop, or the equivalent 15-centimeter round hoop. This size is most common, as it is the perfect size for company logos and left chest designs. Most company logos and left chest designs are between 3.5 to 4.5 inches in size, which makes the 5.5-inch or 15-centimeter hoop the most popular size.

General Trends and Preferences in Embroidery Hoop Sizes

Embroidery trends and preferences in hoop sizes vary among embroiderers. This is because not all embroiderers focus on the same type of embroidery business.
Contract and corporate embroidery businesses tend to embroider left chest logos and designs. These designs are typically smaller and take less time to embroider. Due to this, contract embroiderers normally use smaller hoops and will have multiples of the same size hoop, so that they can be as efficient as possible.
Embroidery hobbyists tend to use a variety of hoop sizes, as they embroider many different items and design sizes. Unlike contract embroiderers, they typically only need one hoop of each size they use since they are not focused on speed.
Embroidery Businesses that focus on a specific niche market use hoop sizes that work best for the specialty items they embroider. They may only need one or two different hoop sizes, but multiples of them, or they may need a variety of sizes. Embroidery trends can also affect the hoop sizes they use.

Factors to Consider for Choosing the Right Size

When selecting the appropriate hoop size, consider the following factors:

Design Size: The industry standard is to always choose the smallest hoop possible to accommodate your design. Doing so will provide better fabric tension, reduced chance for misalignment while hooping, and less waste with items like embroidery stabilizers and water-soluble toppers.
Embroidery Machine Compatibility: Different machines have specific hoop size requirements. Ensure your hoop is compatible with your embroidery machine brand and model.
Product Being Embroidered: If you are embroidering a product with something that cannot be hooped over, like a thick seam, you will need to find a hoop size that can accommodate the design size while avoiding the seam.

Types of Embroidery Hoops

Round Hoops: Traditional and widely used, ideal for general embroidery.
Square/Rectangular Hoops: Typically used for larger designs and continuous patterns.
Oval Hoops: Offer a unique shape for specific design needs.
Magnetic Mighty Hoops: The newest and most efficient, user-friendly tubular embroidery hoop.

Innovative Hoop Technologies

Are Magnetic Embroidery Hoops Worth It?

The patented, magnetic Mighty Hoop eliminates pre-tensioning associated with traditional hoops, are suitable for thick workwear or delicate fabrics, reduce hoop burn and are built to take the daily use of the busiest commercial embroidery business.
Mighty Hoop benefits include:
- Ease of Use: Quick setup and adjustments. Reduces stress on hands and wrists.
- Consistent Tension: Ensures even fabric tension, reducing puckering.
- Secure Hold: Strong grip without hoop marks.
- Versatility: Suitable for different fabric types and thicknesses.
- Time Saving: Reduces hooping time and increases efficiency and productivity.
- Durability: Built for the commercial embroidery industry and warranted.

Accessories Recommended to Enhance Embroidery with Hoops

Stabilizers: Essential for supporting fabric; choose from tear-away, cut-away, no-show polymesh, or wash-away based on the project.
Hoop Grip Tape: Helps prevent fabric from slipping inside traditional non-magnetic embroidery hoops.
Hooping System: Simplifies and speeds up the embroidery hooping process, while making placement easy, accurate and consistent. The HoopMaster is the world leader in commercial hooping systems, using patented features essential to embroiderers and their business.
Hoop Templates: Aid in proper alignment for precision embroidery. The Pocket Guide, by HoopMaster, is a popular placement guide for both traditional hoops and magnetic Mighty Hoops.
Water soluble embroidery topper/stabilizer: Helps prevent embroidery stitches from sinking into thick materials like towels or fuzzy blankets for a clean embroidery look.

By carefully selecting your embroidery hoop, you can ensure high-quality results, and a smooth embroidery process every time. Happy hooping!

Midwest Products Inc. Home to HoopMaster and Mighty Hoop

General

Midwest Products, Inc. Innovators in Embroidery Hooping Systems and Magnetic Hoops

March 10, 20250

Introduction:

Midwest Products, Inc. is the world leader in commercial embroidery hooping systems. As the sole manufacturer and innovator in the embroidery industry and best known for developing the HoopMaster Station and magnetic embroidery hoops called Mighty Hoop. These embroidery tools have revolutionized hooping by providing precision, efficiency, and ease of use. Whether you are a small business or a large production facility, these products simplify the embroidery process, ensuring consistent hooping results every time.

What is the HoopMaster Station?

The HoopMaster Station is a specialized hooping board designed to streamline the embroidery setup process. It provides a structured platform that ensures accurate and repeatable placement of garments in embroidery hoops. This tool eliminates guesswork, reduces errors, and speeds up production, making it an essential investment for embroiderers seeking consistency and efficiency. Watch this video to understand more about the function of the letters, numbers, and holes on the Station. https://youtu.be/TybpAhjqTgQ (Starts a 01:01)

What are Mighty Hoops?

A Mighty Hoop is a magnetic embroidery hoop designed to hold garments securely without the need for excessive manual tightening. Unlike traditional hoops that rely on tension and clamping pressure, Mighty Hoops use powerful magnets to hold fabric in place, significantly reducing strain on the user’s hands and ensuring uniform tension for high-quality embroidery results.

How Magnetic Hoops Work:

Magnetic hoops aka Mighty Hoop function by utilizing strong embedded magnets that clamp fabric between the top ring and bottom ring of the hoop. The magnetic force securely holds the material without causing stretching or distortion, making it ideal for various fabric types, including thick Carhartt jackets, leather, delicate lace, silk, and everything in between. This innovative design allows for easy hooping and removal, reducing the physical effort required in traditional hooping methods.

Benefits of Using Mighty Hoops:

Mighty Hoops offer numerous benefits over conventional hoops, including ease of use, reduced operator fatigue, and improved hooping accuracy. The strong magnetic hold ensures that fabric stays in place, preventing shifting during embroidery. Additionally, the hoop’s design minimizes hoop burn, making it a preferred choice for embroiderers working with delicate materials. These advantages contribute to faster production times and more consistent embroidery quality.

Mighty Hoops and Tubular Embroidery Machines:

Mighty Hoops are only compatible with tubular embroidery machines. A tubular embroidery machine is a type of embroidery machine designed to accommodate open-ended garments such as shirts, jackets, and bags by allowing free movement of the fabric around the hoop. Unlike flatbed embroidery machines, which require fabric to be clamped flat, tubular machines allow for more versatility in hooping and stitching.

There are many different brands of tubular embroidery machines, including:

Tajima
Barudan
Brother
Baby Lock
Happy
SWF
ZSK
Melco
Ricoma
Bai
Bernina
Avance
Smartstitch
Toyota (and so much more!)

Depending on your machine brand and model, we will install a specific style of brackets on your Mighty Hoops to ensure they fit properly. Each machine requires uniquely designed brackets for seamless compatibility, allowing the hoop to be securely attached and function correctly with your embroidery machine.

View our entire brand machine list here: https://hoopmaster.com/products/mighty-hoop

Don’t see your machine brand? Email info@hoopmaster.com

Visit this link to see what we offer for Brother and Baby Lock Flatbed Embroidery machines. https://hoopmaster.com/products/hoopmaster-home-edition

Reducing Hoop Burn:

Hoop burn occurs when excessive pressure from traditional hoops leaves marks or indentations on the fabric. Mighty Hoops significantly reduce hoop burns because they do not require tight clamping. The magnetic hold applies even pressure without crushing fibers, making it ideal for sensitive materials such as fleece, silk, and performance fabrics.

Enhancing Efficiency:

Efficiency is key in any embroidery operation, and Mighty Hoops contribute by reducing setup time and minimizing rework. The quick and easy hooping process allows embroiderers to complete more orders in less time. The combination of HoopMaster Station, Mighty Hoop Fixtures and Mighty Hoops creates the perfect hooping set-up.

Basic Operation:

Using Mighty Hoops to hoop your garments is simple. The fabric is placed between the two magnetic hoop components, which snap together securely. The hoop is then positioned in the embroidery machine’s frame, and the design is stitched. Once completed, the hoop can be easily separated, and the finished product removed with minimal effort. This process eliminates the need for manual tightening, making it accessible for users of all experience levels.

User Precautions:

While Mighty Hoops offer numerous advantages, users should exercise caution due to the strength of the magnets. Handling the hoops carefully is essential to avoid finger pinching or accidental snapping. Additionally, individuals with pacemakers or medical implants should consult their healthcare provider before using magnetic hoops due to potential interference. View our warning list here: https://hoopmaster.com/support/mighty-hoops-magnetic-hoops-safety-warning

Conclusion:

Midwest Products, Inc. continues to set industry standards with its innovative embroidery hooping systems. The HoopMaster Station and Mighty Hoops have transformed the way embroiderers work by improving accuracy, efficiency, and user comfort. Whether you are an experienced embroiderer or just starting, investing in these high-quality American made tools can elevate your embroidery projects, making the process faster, easier, and more professional.

HoopMaster vs Mighty Hoop - What's the Difference?

General

HoopMaster vs. Mighty Hoop: Understanding the Differences

February 28, 20250

Many embroiderers are familiar with both HoopMaster and Mighty Hoop, but not everyone knows how they are related—or how they differ. Both patented products come from Midwest Products, Inc., and while they work together seamlessly, they serve distinct purposes in the embroidery process.

The Origins of HoopMaster

The original HoopMaster system was designed as a precision hoop placement tool to work with the standard hoops that come with your embroidery machine. Before its invention, embroiderers often struggled with consistent hoop placement, leading to alignment issues and wasted time. HoopMaster solved this problem by introducing:

A Station, which provides a stable base for hooping shirts, sweatshirts, jackets.
A Fixture, designed to securely hold the hoop while placing garments.
A Portable Mounting Base with Fixture and FreeStyle Arm, which allows for hooping smaller garments, Onesies, bags, and anything else that can’t fit on the Station.

While the HoopMaster system tremendously improved accuracy and consistency, there was still a major challenge when using traditional hoops:

You still had to manually adjust the inner and outer rings to match the fabric thickness.
The tightening process was hard on your wrists, especially after repeated use.
Traditional hoops could cause fabric distortion and hoop burn, particularly on delicate or thick materials.

These challenges made hooping tedious, especially in high-production environments. That’s where Mighty Hoop came in.

The Introduction of Mighty Hoops

Over time, as embroidery technology evolved, Mighty Hoops were developed and patented as an industry first magnetic hooping solution. Unlike traditional hoops that rely on tension and pressure, Mighty Hoops use strong magnets to hold the fabric securely in place. This offers several advantages:

Less strain on fabric – No need to over-tighten the hoop, reducing the risk of hoop burn.
Faster hooping – Simply place the fabric and let the magnets do the work.
Easier hooping of thick materials – Works exceptionally well with items like leather, Carhartt jackets, and heavy sweatshirts.

While Mighty Hoops provided a new way to hoop garments, they were designed to be fully compatible with the original HoopMaster Station. Instead of the HoopMaster Fixture holding a standard hoop, Mighty Hoop Fixtures were introduced to securely hold Mighty Hoops in place during the hooping process. This allowed embroiderers to continue using the same HoopMaster setup while benefiting from the ease of magnetic hooping.

HoopMaster & Mighty Hoop: A Perfect Pair

Even though they were developed at different times, HoopMaster and Mighty Hoop are designed to work together. The HoopMaster Station remains a critical tool for ensuring precision placement, while the Mighty Hoop provides a stress-free and efficient hooping experience.

HoopMaster Station with 5.5" Mighty Hoop Fixture

Today, embroiderers can choose to use HoopMaster with either traditional hoops or Mighty Hoops, depending on their needs. Regardless of the choice, the same fundamental concept applies—using the HoopMaster system to ensure accuracy and efficiency in the hooping process.

Midwest Products, Inc.: The Company Behind It All

HoopMaster and Mighty Hoop are both embroidery tools specifically invented, engineered, and patented, by Midwest Products, Inc., a US company dedicated to improving efficiency in the embroidery industry and inventing new and innovative embroidery accessories. HoopMaster and Mighty Hoop are manufactured, assembled, and distributed worldwide from their manufacturing facilities in Germantown, Wisconsin. Their products have led them to become the world leader in commercial embroidery hooping systems. Helping embroiderers of all skill levels throughout the world streamline their workflow and improve the quality of their work.

By understanding the differences and connections between HoopMaster and Mighty Hoop, embroiderers can make the best choice for their production needs, whether sticking with traditional hoops and the original HoopMaster setup or upgrading to the magnetic ease of Mighty Hoops while still benefiting from the precise placement of the HoopMaster Station.

Midwest Products, Inc. takes great pride in manufacturing all of our products in the USA. Our patented HoopMaster and Mighty Hoop products are designed to be the best in the industry, which we are! We are also committed to providing outstanding customer service, ensuring that every customer receives the support they need. Our sales and customer service team are located right here in our home office and warehouse in Germantown, WI, so you can always count on talking to a knowledgeable representative who truly understands our products.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do you still sell HoopMaster Products?
A: Yes! The HoopMaster system is still available and continues to be a reliable tool for precise hoop placement.

Q: Do you sell the traditional hoops that come with embroidery machines?
A: No. We do not manufacture or sell the standard hoops that come with your embroidery machine.

Q: Why would someone still buy the traditional HoopMaster setup when the Mighty Hoop system is far superior?
A: We understand that our patented Mighty Hoops are an investment. Large embroidery shops needing 200+ Mighty Hoops of just one size can see costs add up quickly. Many shops slowly invest in our line of products while still using the hoops that came with their machine. By using the HoopMaster setup, they can continue to achieve consistent placement while gradually transitioning to Mighty Hoops over time.

How-to's

The Rise of Personalized Easter Baskets: A Timeless Tradition Made Easy with Mighty Hoops

February 28, 20252

In recent years, personalized Easter baskets have surged in popularity, becoming a cherished tradition for families looking to add a unique touch to their holiday celebrations. Embroidering names on Easter baskets has transformed them from simple seasonal accessories into keepsakes that children and loved ones can treasure for years.

Why Personalized Easter Baskets Have Become a Trend

One reason for this growing trend is the desire for meaningful, customized gifts. Rather than using generic store-bought baskets, families are opting for ones that reflect the recipient’s personality. Adding a name in colorful embroidery not only makes the basket feel more special but also helps avoid mix-ups during egg hunts and Easter morning festivities.

Social media has also played a significant role in this personalization boom. The popular blue and pink easter bunny fabric totes (from “5 Below” and “Amazon”) with a name stitched in bright thread elevates the design and adds a professional, high-end look.

The Challenge of Embroidering Easter Baskets

Despite their popularity, embroidering names on Easter baskets isn’t always straightforward. The structure of most baskets—whether stiff, curved, or thick—makes hooping a challenge. Traditional embroidery hoops struggle to grip irregularly shaped materials, and the process can be frustrating for both beginners and seasoned embroiderers.

How Mighty Hoops Makes Easter Basket Embroidery Easy

Fortunately, Mighty Hoops has revolutionized the embroidery process with their magnetic hoops, making it easier than ever to personalize Easter baskets. These powerful magnetic hoops eliminate the struggle of clamping down bulky or uneven surfaces, allowing embroiderers to securely hold baskets in place without excessive pressure or distortion.

Mighty Hoops offers a variety of techniques for hooping Easter baskets, ensuring that no matter the shape or material, there’s a simple and effective way to get the job done. Their hoops provide a strong hold without requiring constant readjustment, saving time and reducing frustration. This innovation means even embroiderers with minimal experience can achieve professional-looking results.

We created a video showcasing just how easy it is for you to hoop Easter Baskets with multiple different hoop sizes and techniques. To learn how to Hoop Easter Baskets with Mighty Hoops watch this video!

To purchase any of the Mighty Hoop Products used to hoop Easter Baskets, click the links below.

9×3″ Mighty Hoop: https://hoopmaster.com/?s=9×3&post_type=product&type_aws=true

9×3″ Backing Holder: https://hoopmaster.com/product/accessories/backing-holder
4×6″ Mighty Hoop: https://hoopmaster.com/?s=4×6&post_type=product&type_aws=true

Adjustable FreeStyle Fixture: https://hoopmaster.com/product/mighty-hoop/barudan/4-25×13-fixture

Portable Mounting Base: https://hoopmaster.com/product/accessories/portable-mounting-base

5.5″ Mighty Hoop: https://hoopmaster.com/products/mighty-hoop

5.5″ Backing Holder: https://hoopmaster.com/product/accessories/backing-holder

Tear Away Stabilizer: https://a.co/d/bsm3D4n

Water-Soluble Stabilizer: https://a.co/d/28VcdTq

Placement Dots: https://a.co/d/8tBlJft