Hello From Liz Mathews Flosstube: First Time Trying a Q-Snap!

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Q-Snaps are widely available at Local Needlework shops, as well as online shops.
I purchased mine from 123Stitch.com linked here:
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[@NataliaCanaday-LinenNeedleandT]

If your snaps loosen up, you can wash them in the dishwasher and the hot water will tighten them 😊

[@tamimorgan1487]

Hi Liz- to tighten you just roll clamp-it gets even tighter. I always cut 2.5 inch strips of batting the length of my qsnaps- I place the batting on my linen before I place the clamp on. That way it protects my linen and my stitches from the clamp. I also sometimes add strips of cotton fabric tothe ends of my linen - I just use a basteing stitch on my sewing machine and sew it on. It allows me to use a smaller piece of linen in my qsnaps. Largest size they sell is17 x17. But they sale extenders so you can make it bigger.

[@jamiewaite3562]

Liz, I was also pulling and stretching my linen trying to get the snaps off to reposition my fabric when I first started using it! I watched soooo many videos on how to use it before I found the best tips…..To get them off, simple slide to clamps off the ends!!! I promise you it works. To tighten the fabric, roll the clamps backwards. Don’t pull the fabric from the back. I learned that the hard way too. 😩 It will get drum tight. Then you can rotate them back inward when you finish stitching for the day to let the fabric relax until you are ready to stitch again. Hope this helps and hopefully saves you hours of video tutorial watching! Happy Stitching

[@teresaboyer284]

I have used Q snaps for years and I love them. They have never damaged a piece of my stitching. I use them exactly the way you set it up. I don’t do the “in the ditch” or upside down because it restricts too much of my stitching area, andI have never handled a piece enough to get it dirty. The only restriction really is beads. I wouldn’t put the clamp on over beads because they are so tight they might pull the beads off. If I had to use the clamp over beads I would use a piece of terry cloth or felt to give the beads some room. Try using your clamp for stitching! You kind of dispel some of the weight by using your body and I don’t notice weight at all. Or prop it on an armchair! It works great. My favorite size is 6 X 6. And my best tip is to SLIDE the clamps off rather than break a nail by unclamping them!

[@patbrown4435]

You can also sew scrap fabric on the sides of your cross stitch fabric to make a smaller piece fit in the qsnap

[@Stitchesby_Amy]

My two tips for q-snaps, 1 is I put a felt strip under the c clamp to help keep it tight and it makes it easier to remove cause you can just pull up on the felt no on your fabric. 2. I use magnetic cable ties or the silicone thread spool keeps (They look like a C) to hold your extra fabric.

[@madaketmom]

I also use felt strips. At Michaels I get the white felt sheets and cut them up. No damage to the fabric or stitched piece.

[@bfaye909]

I use scrap pieces of thin batting

[@grandmaB1948]

Holding a hoop or Qsnap during long stitching sessions can cause your hand to cramp. Using a stand eliminates this problem. I use a Lowery floor stand and love it. It can hold a hoop, Q snap or scroll rods. I bought mine from Lindy Stitches.

[@karenjones256]

Hi Liz, I have used Q snaps on a limited basis and as others have said, try tightening the tensions of the fabric not by pulling on the fabric, but by twisting the C clamps. Some say the C clamps leave dark marks on their fabric, so that’s one reason to use a thin piece of fabric to cover your stitched piece. I still prefer my Stitching to fully fit within the Q snap so I don’t have to risk clamping over my stitches, but it’s great for small pieces. Sometimes you have to use a larger piece of fabric than needed in order to have enough to clamp. Hope that helps!

[@Christine-ix7tp]

Hi Liz, if you roll the clamp, that will tighten it.

[@lindaskinner5887]

Thank you for sharing the information.

[@Gen_X_Stitcher]

Welcome from a Q Snap user! I put quilt batting over my fabric where the clamp goes. I usually do that whether the clamp is going over a stitched area or the unstitched linen. I also tend to use the larger Q Snaps so my stitching fits inside. But I have put a clamp on top of stitches and I have not had any problems.

[@ProcraftinatorSharon]

You can buy “grime guards “ to go around the frame and fold any extra fabric into them.

[@carolsiegle3254]

Been using these for along time, love very much❤😊

[@chriscrossstitcher2593]

Hi, Liz! So, when I put fabric on my QSnap I make it taut as I go with the clamps-so I’m stretching the fabric as I go. I LOVE my fabric to be super taut. Also, the answer is yes, the clamps do loosen over time. Most of us cut strips of felt and use that to make them fit more tightly. I’ve never tried it, but people have posted that you can run it through the dishwasher to make them tight again. I recommend using a grime guard. They’re both useful and fun to look at. I can’t believe that you stitch 40ct in hand!

[@EmmyRose22a]

I love my q-snaps. I'm afraid of putting the clamps over my stitching, so I just put a scrap piece of quilters cotton (or old sheet) over my stitches before placing the clamps. If you slide the clamps off, they come off easier and won't wear out as fast as well. I have also learned to stitch with my fabric the opposite way of how you loaded yours, so the front is recessed. This helps with securing your threads in the back. Thanks for sharing your new experience with us!

[@annemousseau8757]

take frame apart slide clamp off instead of pulling which will crack clamps. Roll clamps backward to tighten so you do not tear fabric. Qsnap are great but do not fit in my lap stand just my floor stand. I use rubber drawer liner or felt under clamps to keep it taut. I also put pieces in the dishwasher when the parts will not stay tight. It takes a little bit before this is needed.

[@ChrisR_4812]

Some suggestions: Definitely put something in between your stitching fabric and the clamps. This will prevent any damage that could be caused by tightening or taking a clamp off. Try sliding the clamps off - sometimes it's easier. To tighten your fabric, don't pull on the fabric - twist the clamps towards the back. It's easier. There are 3" extenders that you can purchase and you can mix and match Q-snaps. The smallest is 6", and the largest is 17", but if you add the extender you get 20". Then there are the floor models.

[@lorithornton6527]

I used to use Q-snaps, but they started bothering my carpal tunnel syndrome in my wrists. I pretty much stitch in hand now. I am using a Nurge hoop for one larger piece--mainly to try them out. I'm not having the carpal tunnel issues with the Nurge hoop, and it seems to hold the fabric as tight as a Q-snap did for me. I still prefer to stitch in hand. Hoops slow me down!

[@paulamcmellon6171]

Thank you for this video Liz. I’ve always wondered about them and now I just might order one!!

[@betsabeabarleycorn]

I have never used one, but if so many stitchers are using Q-Snaps I believe they're goos. I personally like no. 2 Nurge wooden hoops, because bigger and cumbersome tools hurt my hands and wrists...

[@wendybanta2577]

I started off using these. Loved them but were somewhat heavy. I no longer use them but really enjoyed them. I currently use Nurge hoops and absolutely love them! I love that they’re not round, square instead & available in multiple sizes. Place batting under the q snap bars so your stitching will be safe 😊

[@raeannoneill8392]

Tried it. Went back to stitching in hand.

[@UntwistyourStitches]

I love my qSnaps. I have at least 8 sets to make different sizes. I put paper tape on. The rod and in the center of the bit. So the fabric does not move and hold tighter. It also does not put to much bulk on the clamp. I prefer not to go longer then 11 high but I will go 14, 17 or whatever I need width long. Try not to pull the fabric under the clamps put them on and the twist the clamp to tighten.

[@maryellenweber4542]

I place batting or felt over my stitches before place the clamps on top of them.

[@SueStagsStitches]

I love my Qsnaps. The clips will loosen and get easier to use. I use a piece of cotton batting over completed stitches. I wouldn’t pull fabric to tighten. You can just roll the clamps towards the back to tighten.

[@madaketmom]

Also, it is much easier to load the frame working flat on a table.

[@robynknits]

I'm a stitch in hander too and my only concern is the added weight. I'll be looking forward to your comments on that.

[@leslierupp73]

I prefer the smaller sizes. When you put the clamps over a stitched area, I always put a piece of warm and natural so it does not push my stitches.

[@bethmcguire7581]

Roll the clamps to the outside instead of pulling the fabric to tighten the fabric. You can prop the snap frame top on a table, chair arm, etc. to act as a sort of ‘third hand’ to hold the frame so you can two hand stitch to see how you like it before you invest in a floor frame. The lightweight is good. My favorite working size is the combination of 8” x 17”. The 8” sides are a comfortable reach height. You do not need to see the entire piece while you’re stitching it. If your clamps get loose use paper towel between clamp and frame. Have fun 😊

[@bethmcguire7581]

Best Stitches Always 😊😊😊❤❤❤

[@HoopItUpWithJan0606]

I used qsnaps. They do hurt my hands if I hold them for too long. But I have a k-creations lap stand I love to use it with so I can 2 handed stitch. I put my fabric on so I am stitching in the well. I feel like it keeps the top fabric protected from being touched too much. I also lay a folded paper towel or Kleenex over my stitches before I put the clamp on. It does protect the stitches, but it does help keep the tension tighter. They do have 3” extenders so you can add those to any length to increase the size of the q snap. I hope this all makes sense and is helpful.

[@pamelaandersen771]

Hi Liz. I'm not a q-snap user even though I've been stitching for years. I have concerns too that my stitching will get flattened by the snaps, lol. Thank you for doing this review, it's very informative. And a big thank you to commenters for offering advice on how to avoid squished stitches. ☺

[@gleehanson4775]

Qsnaps have pretty much replaced hoops for me though I keep few nice wooden ones because they're pretty. I stitch in hand probably 98 percent of the time but qsnaps definitely have their place and benefits.

[@luciabeaumier9738]

I love my Q Snaps, they work great. When you load your fabric , place it on a flat surface, you will be able to get it centered more easily. The clamps do loosen up over time but you can sit them in hot water to retighten. I will place a strip of batting over the fabric before I put on the clamp, it hold the fabric and I always remove the stitched piece when I’m done stitching so my stitches don’t flatten. I hope this helps. While I do love the Q Snaps, I love my scroll frame

[@catherinelaurent5219]

Thank-you Liz for a great Q-Snap explanation and video.

[@clarebond5036]

17:59 I like the Q Snaps but am currently using a Nurge hoop. They are rectangular like the Q Snaps but not as bulky. They are not interchangeable to make a custom size like the Q snaps are but they do come in 4 sizes and various colors.

[@urbanstylejantine810]

I love my Q snap, use it for full coverage only... i cut strips of a fleece blanket to put in between cross stitch and clamp. No damage at all. You can tighten the c snaps by putting them in hot water when they get a bit loose.

[@beckyess7399]

Thank you for these tips; especially the one about the hot water. I had no idea!

[@shirleychase170]

I have a snaps but I prefer the wooden rods frames and wooden hoops that can be attached to floor standing frame or lap frame. Stitching opens lots of doors and I hope you find the ones you will like. Happy stitching. 💃🌼👊💥

[@susanott1264]

Love the Q Snap, but don't buy the generic one. I don't pull the linen, I twist the C clamp to make the fabric tighter. I also prefer the smaller one since the large one was heavy.

[@patriciacohn2366]

QSnaps also work well for hand quilting small pieces...if anyone hand quilts any more...

[@donnaboyd5108]

I also have never tried a Q-Snap. I had no idea how they actually work. This video was informative and helpful.

[@lewnuh]

I use strips of white fleece to put between my cross stitch fabric and the qsnap clamp. That way I don't have to worry about the fabric being damaged, and it also helps me get the clamps off!! (I leave the strips wide enough to stick out from under the clamps about an inch)

[@artyfree]

I use cream velvet under each clamp, put the c clams over the velvet with it more on the inside, then twist out- the velvet or felt etc stops any damage, especially when taking clamps off, I use it over my stitched area and never have a problem with it. I have a few sizes so I can make my own sizes as they all fit together. I use a Lowry stand for large sizes to stoparm ache. Seriously they are soooo good. Also if you buy grime guards for each size you can tuck all the excess fabric in which is a great help. Love your new excitement for personal stitching again.

[@sarahcarl8565]

I have a couple of QSnaps that I use for some of my bigger projects. I put felt under the clips to help cushion my stitching.

[@phyllislundy8803]

I’ve used q-snap frames for years. I do have a floor stand and a lap frame to hold the frame. It’s a little awkward for me to constantly hold the piece without them. Definitely place a piece of cloth or thin batting between fabric and snap. You can also just roll the frame a bit to tighten. Sometimes I will slide the snap off the frame if it is harder to remove. The snaps do loosen up a bit over time and will sometimes crack, but they are easily replaced. I have a lot of different size pieces to make different sizes. I like using an 8 inch and 11 inch to make 8x11. I use that one a lot. Have fun with them!😊

[@kimburgess]

I've also just ordered my first Q snap! Just waiting for it to show up!

[@JulieRStitches]

I used to be a Q-snap user. I do data entry as a professional and started having lots of wrist and elbow issues and the doctor linked to my job. As it turned out it was the Q-snap. I would recommend putting your fabric on in the ditch. Two reasons for that. First, you are handling the front of your needlework if you do not. Second, the benefit is putting it on in the ditch you have easier access to tying off your threads if you are close to the edge and do not have to remove your Q-snap. Actually, there is a third benefit when putting it on in the ditch is you can roll up your extra fabric so you are only touching the back of the fabric. I am now a hoop or Scroll frame used and I do the same with hoe I put the fabric on. I will message you with some pictures of what I mean by in the ditch.

[@Dyanwil2]

Good morning! Soo glad you tested this. I have never used a QSnap … used many hoops over the years … but have often thought of trying one of these. Looks easy enough and, like you said, an exciting new tool. From what little I know, I’ve seen most users where slide the clamped parts off instead of lift. You’ve done a great job showing your first attempt. Thank you.

[@sarahmimosalane1896]

I hate the hoop lines too so I bought an off brand one from Hobby Lobby & found it cumbersome. I have since learned to stitch in hand. In years past when I did full coverage I used a scroll frame & really liked it but I was a monogamous stitcher back then & sat in a different chair. I don’t know that the stand for it will reach over the arm of this chair 🤔 but I really liked it for the large projects. I have a new large (like 2 year) full coverage that I want to do & don’t think I will like my stitches if it’s not pulled tight. Decisions decisions! Thanks for sharing! I read in the comments about using batting - learned something new!

[@Dltp259]

I just bought a set of, hope I like them

[@MAtravelingstitcher]

Hi Liz. Love the video. I bought a q snap recently and I've been so nervous trying it. So happy to know I'm not alone. ❤

[@juliehart6952]

I love Q snaps- when I am not stitching in hand

[@rosepetalstitches]

Hi Liz love your video. I tend to use some excess linen to cover the linen/ stitched area and never had any problems.

[@cindyyates2864]

Roll the clamps outwards, fabric will be drum tight :)

[@nenitabutcher5518]

Also you can use your grub bar fabric around your Qsnap it holds your extra fabric. If you know what I mean.

[@underwateroasis]

In the few years I've been stitching, I've largely used QSnaps and they're my favorite! It's a lot less cumbersome if you slide your clamps off the end of the bar rather than pull or pry them off. Plus, it helps keep the clamps from stretching out and means you don't have to replace them as quickly.

[@kassiesbeach]

Try putting the clamps in the dishwasher to tighten them back up. It actually works. I have broken clamps though. Oops. 🤣

[@CoffeeandCrossStitchNicola]

I usually use Q snaps and I’ve never had any damage (and I stitch Dimensions kits!). I much prefer them to hoops. I tend to use a larger size, one which fits most of my project on; I have a few sets and mix and match the pieces to create the best size for each project. I twist the plastic clamps in opposite directions to tighten the fabric. I used to hold them no problem but recently got a lowery stand with the corner clamp (as it was free) and this holds my large q snaps perfectly.

[@beckyclay6363]

I love Dimensions kit also, always have!

[@FluffyTurtles]

Slide the c-clamps off the end of the tubes instead of trying to pull them off the tube (no fabric on). Easier. Also helps keep the c-clamps from getting out of shape and loose.

[@connieenevold1745]

Thanks so much for sharing your experience with us! Great tips from your viewers too! I hope you do a follow up report after stitching with the Qsnap. I also stitch in hand and tried a qsnap because of the open stitching surface but found that my non-stitching hand cramped up from staying in the same position all the time. May not be an issue with specialty stitching like back stitching. I try to avoid that at all cost😂

[@rubblewife]

I have used the Q-snap in the past for stitching and it is nice, however, it does get heavy. I like to use the Morgan hoop or a Nurge hoop. I get really good tension with them and I do not leave my projects in the hoops so I do not get hoop marks. I also am an aida stitcher. Hope this helps.

[@thegardenstitcher]

Thanks for sharing this Liz. I have also never used a qsnap. I learned to stitch with a hoop but always hated the hoop marks. I learned to stitch in hand and have now been doing so for years. I do feel like my stitches look better on taught fabric, especially when using 2 strands. My concern is the weight so will be interested in hearing further feedback from you.

[@trudygongora7247]

I tried to use Q snaps when I returned to cross stitching about 5 years ago, but even though I was only using a small one, my hand hurt while I was using it. You might need to get a stand so that you don’t have to hold the frame in your hands. Also, I think that if you got 2 11x17 sets - you could use all 4 of the 17 inch frames to accommodate your Dimensions kits.

[@jodydavie923]

I stitch exsclusivly with the Michael's or Hobby Lobby brand of Q snaps, mostly by combining pieces to form rectangles such as 6x8 or 8x11. I don't care to stitch on larger frames or hoops and have never experienced damage to my stitching caused by the Q snap knock offs.

[@bethgilene1515]

You should put the fabric on fairly tight and roll the clamps to tighten fabric. Don't pull on your fabric. Use a qsap fabric cover to be able to have excess fabric tucked up into.

[@nenitabutcher5518]

To take your clamps off slide them off side ways off instead of pulling off.

[@nenitabutcher5518]

Liz there are extensions I think to make bigger. I do use Q snaps which I love. But there is a stand up frame called the millinium frame from UK. there many features. Too long to get into it. It’s a very popular frame all over the world. You should look it up. There are videos on it. But I’m not sure if you would be up with a stand since you like stitching without any hoops etc….I have this millinium frame and I love it.

[@teresakearns6924]

If it were my piece that I had stitched, I would only put it in the QS snap if the Q snap did not touch the stitching. You can buy several sizes and make the size that you need by combining them.

[@vickiinkansas1399]

I know some people use thin batting under each snap. I would be aware of getting the fabric off grain when stretching to tighten each side. Also, they are heavy and are much less taxing on your hands to clip into a floor stand so you can stitch two handed.

[@eatplants.and.crossstitch]

I load my fabric so I am "stitching in the ditch" and the clamps go over the backs of my stitches, not over the tops or fronts of my stitches.

[@aprater00]

I Frankenstein a 11”x8” and love it

[@deniseperreault]

Hi Liz - from a newbie Q-Snap user…that was fun to watch & very similar to my experience last week!! I like to stitch in the ditch with hoops & scroll frames. I haven’t figured out how to do that with Q-Snaps in case you plan for a follow up video…

[@nenitabutcher5518]

Liz instead of pulling fabric roll the clamps on all sides to tighten fabric

[@conniefullmer7824]

I always put fabric over my stitching in the Qsnap. I think the 6X6 is too small to do any stitching. The 8X8 is my favorite. The larger ones are too heavy and I don't have a floor stand.

[@ProcraftinatorSharon]

Liz, you can slide the clamps off the side of the frame rather than pulling it off.

[@sharonshergold2372]

Thanks for your instruction, in the past I have tried a QSNAP but find it’s too hard to get the clamps off. I’ve tried the slide method as opposed to pulling but still find it too frustrating. As most stitchers seem to like the QSNAP, I think the problem is me 😂 maybe I play with it too much.

[@lyndabazarsky6321]

I suggest put some felt between your stitches and the qsnap clamp to stop it from ruining your stitches.

[@nenitabutcher5518]

For smaller projects I have to use small hoops.

[@jennidawn]

I so wanted to use these, but they just hurt my hand…combo of weight and the width of the frame, it felt so big in my hand. I like the nurge hoops. They are square like the q-snap, but thin and light weight. My advice on any of these devices is to remove them when you are done stitching for the day. Having to put back on the next time pretty much guarantees it won’t go in exactly the same place so hoop marks don’t become really predominant and any stitches that were under the hoop or snap can “breathe” and move back to their normal placement. Just my two cents.

[@victoriabougie4412]

I am an in-hand stitcher as well. I’ve seen those q snaps all over floss tube but at this time I’ve no plans to try it, although I’ll watch your progress. I would worry if I kept my stitched areas under there for any period of time it would damage the stitching? I guess you’ll show us the way!! I saw on one ladies FT that she recvd a hint to purchase a steering wheel cover from a dollar type store to put around the outside. Maybe the c-snap-on part rubs your hand or wrist as your stitching and the cover keeps that from happening? Again, no experience!

[@sharontesi4273]

I've heard that people do that to keep the fabric clean. I have no experience with q snaps, so I could be totally wrong lol.

[@loftymakes]

I'm super new to the Q-snap, I do find my wrist tires more quickly than a hoop but I love the tension. I tend to slide the clamps downwards off the frame rather than pulling them off sideways. Also the frames clamps is designed to rotate outwards to tighten the tension of the fabric rather than pulling the fabric itself which may damage it?

[@readingandstitching1944]

I do use a Lowery Workstand frame with QSnaps....it would be much too awkward to try and just hold the QSnap and stitch at the same time!

[@sweetwoodruff6246]

I feel like I need to adjust to a QSnap because I don’t like hoop wrinkles I can’t iron out. But they get so heavy and hurt my neck. Thanks for the video. I’ll rethink it.

[@catheyok]

I don’t have a strong dislike for Qsnaps, but I have arthritis in my hands and I find it hurts my hands after I hold them for a while.

[@Lseney]

I felt they were hard to get off myself

[@lisahenderson2975]

I love QSnaps, but I will say I can only use the 8x8 or smaller. I find that the larger QSnaps cause neck and shoulder pain just holding them in hand. I don’t have a stand so I don’t know if it would be better if it was attached to a stand

[@lisahenderson2975]

Also you can mix the sizes to create rectangles, for example 6x8, 8x11. Also, you to make sure you are getting the actual brand from a reputable seller. There are knock offs that are horrible.

[@lisahenderson2975]

You can also slide the clamps towards the front or back to improve the tension as well. When I have extra fabric you can double the fabric to help as well. I only stitch on Aida but I have seen comments that you need to be careful with linen, to make sure it is straight. Last tip, you can slide the clips off instead of pulling it off, I have found some fabrics are easier to slide it off.

[@NDQuilter1]

I use them but prefer a lap stand in my lap instead of holding it in my hand. 😊

[@dileli1]

Qsnaps are simply too heavy to hold for me. If really needed would invest in a stand. I stitch in hand or small hoop

[@elizabethkrafnick5466]

Be warned that they sell off brand and officials qsnap brand on Amazon. I tried to save money and bought the off brand. They are badly made and should be avoided at all costs!

[@charlenereeder8317]

Just sent you an email.

[@theresachucle5362]

😊🧵🪡🤗🤩