Q-Snap Hacks Every Stitcher Should Know

[@HeatherMarieLP]

I’ve been using Q snaps for a long time, but still learned some very useful tips here. Thank you!

[@123Stitchdotcom]

You are very welcome!

[@tys1961x]

I love my Qsnap frames and grime guards. I have had them for years. ❤

[@danaparks3362]

Love Q-Snaps! Been using them since the 80s and haven’t found anything I like better!

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Me too - I still remember the first time I discovered them!

[@brontebenoit6181]

I’ve been using Q-Snaps since the 1980s and I learned some tips and tricks from your video. Thank you so much. Knowledge is power. 🎄🎄🎄

[@123Stitchdotcom]

You are very welcome! Glad you found it helpful.

[@kimhagen5005]

I knew .let of this already but how nice to have a refresher by a pro! Wonderful product and presenter.

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@invisible4445]

I never thought of using a felt piece between the clamp and the fabric! Thanks for that. I stopped using q snaps because of damage to parts already stitched. The felt will prevent that in the future. 😀

[@kathyretherford7660]

Perfect. I started a 10"w x 36" cut of material for a project, last night. I was thinking how wonderful it would be to have a rectangular shaped Qsnap and then I came across your tutorial. Thank you. I will be ordering more frames. Anyone watching your tutorial and they haven't tried the Qsnap, try one you will love it. Happy Holidays to all.

[@carolsiegle3254]

I have been using Qsnaps for years, but always fun to see a video, thank's, because the new snaps are harder. The lip can be difficult to get off, now l know, how to get off. Tips are so helpful 😊❤. Carolann saying Hello from Minnesota. I never had a problem either getting having them get loose.

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Hello from Texas!

[@annieb8825]

Now I’m sad I trashed my w snaps!!!!!! Learned so very much - tutorial 5 star!!!!! Love 123 - my go-to online shop ❤

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Thank you!!!

[@bobh7275]

Love my Q snaps and use the cloth grime guards. Great info for stitchers. Happy Holidays

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Thank you! Happy Holidays to you too!

[@Sharmelle586]

One thing I have done to tighten the clamps was have them in really hot (not boiling) water for several minutes, then wrapping rubber bands round them. Once cool, I remove the rubber bands. I do notice an improvement in the tightness of the clamps. My oldest Q-snap is over 25 years old and still works great.

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Great tip!

[@judywilner8882]

Yes brilliant - I have one but didn't know all the ways to change it up. I enjoyed your helpful info video very much.

[@123Stitchdotcom]

I'm glad you found it helpful!

[@hollyrains7819]

I used to use the q snaps but they were loose now I see what I can do to make them tight again. Thank you for all your useful information

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Are the clamps loose or the frame itself?

[@slpender77]

I have used Q-snap frames forever and have made many custom sizes for my design needs. They are awesome and so lightweight for my hands to not wear out! Thanks for the demo and the ways to hold your fabric out of the way! Love your company, too!

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Thank you so much!!

[@caroltown3162]

Extremely helpful video and much appreciated. That extra fabric drives me crazy!

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Glad it helped!

[@OldOaksFarm73]

Very helpful. Thank you. I just recently discovered q snaps work great with needlepoint canvas.

[@patriciacohn2366]

So very helpful! Thank you so much for your demonstration! Like the size for Tiny Towns- will give them a try!

[@123Stitchdotcom]

You’re very welcome!

[@akuabiaa-adu838]

This was so informative! Thank you for sharing with us.

[@123Stitchdotcom]

You are so welcome!

[@caitjohnson6021]

I’ve made two waistband elastics, measured and then shortened by an inch. Stitch ends together and use one for the vertical and the second for the horizontal. The extra fabric is then rolled up and placed under each elastic. Works well..quick and easy.

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Great idea!

[@carolconrow5132]

I have only used the sizes that I have purchased, thank you for showing us all the useful additions to make other sizes. I also had problems getting the clamps on and off so your tips were very helpful. I now may use my Qsnap frames more.

[@123Stitchdotcom]

I'm glad the information was helpful!

[@karincooks]

I love my Qsnaps and appreciate this video. I put strips of cotton fabric under the clamps so they don’t damage my fabric (which has, unfortunately happened when I doubled the fabric).

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Yes, I like to put felt strips under the clamps as well. Good tip!

[@kmitchell9186]

Thank you for sharing your tips for how to use the Q snaps! Take care!

[@123Stitchdotcom]

You are so welcome!

[@joycehancock4966]

Your video was so helpful. I have only used q-snaps once and maybe I can use them more now.

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Dalas120]

Now I finally get why everyone loves Q-snaps so much!

[@melissagilliland7247]

This was very helpful. I’ve never put them together to make different sizes. I just used them as the sizes I bought them. Thanks for showing this!!

[@123Stitchdotcom]

You are so welcome!

[@anitrarock9683]

Very informative and easy to understand - thanks!

[@123Stitchdotcom]

You are welcome!

[@GB-kl5lp]

Thank you

[@agtpaper]

I have done the dishwasher trick on loose clamps. It doesn't make a dramatic difference, but it does help a bit.

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Thanks for letting us know!

[@kettle2293]

How about a link to the gorgeous sweater you're wearing?

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Thank you! I'm sorry, I don't remember where I bought it!

[@samplermom]

Hi there! Longtime customer who just discovered your channel. Thank you for all of the good info! I just watched your Halloween project episode and you have some very beautiful finishes there! Suggestion - I loved the portion where you showed the various linens. Can you do more of that? I was looking for an orange and seeing all of those together in that episode really helped me decide on which one that I liked. Your lighting is very good and those of us without an LNS could really benefit from the comparisons of fabrics!

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Excellent suggestion, I'll see what I can do!

[@dona6156]

Very helpful!

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Glad it was helpful!

[@barbarakennelly2520]

I purchased 2 different sizes of these frames when they first came out over 15 years ago. I love them. Got the two smallest sizes. Completely did away with my wooden, plastic and metal hoops. They are Amazing. I did figure out that if you have an odd sized stitchery size, I would combine the longer sides with the shorter pieces. and I can have a 6" x 11" piece of works. Makes it much easier to work with that tall and narrow picture, dealing with the too large or too wide hoop. Recommend them totally. Glad to see there are different sizes available, I can now increase my choices.

[@BarbaraWest-oops]

This was great. I had no idea that extra extension pieces and clamps are available separately. I usually stitch in hand, but I'm looking at a larger, more complicated piece that I'm sure will need to be stretched. I feel less intimidated now.

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Glad it was helpful!

[@debrachewning1311]

I have all the sizes and the 14" extenders. I have used all kinds of configurations.

[@gloriaurrea7916]

Which qsnap comes with the included extension?

[@123Stitchdotcom]

The 3 inch extensions are sold separately. However, you can put together two different sized Q-Snaps to make another size, without the use of extensions (Example: put together an 8x8 frame and an 11x11 to make an 8x11 frame). They are just another option for making other sizes.

[@andrsn4u455]

Oh I didn’t know about the accessories that are offered. Thank you for sharing this. ~Martha San Jose, California

[@123Stitchdotcom]

You're very welcome!

[@carolbennett3488]

Can you add more than one extension piece to each side in order to make the frame size even larger or does it wobble at the joined extrnsion pieces too much. Also how effective the slide bars when they are shorter than the extended frame?

[@123Stitchdotcom]

I just tried this out on a couple of different Q-Snaps. Although it works, the connection on the second extension doesn't seem to be as tight. I don't think I would recommend using two of them next to each other. But to answer your second question, the clamps are still very effective even if a bit shorter than the frame side. You can also buy different sized clamps separately should you need them.

[@davidschrimpf3209]

Great tips! I use Q-Snaps on a lot of my projects. I like that jukebox on the wall behind you. Is that a pattern or kit I could buy somewhere? I looked on your site but couldn't find anything for "jukebox".

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Thanks! The Jukebox is a really old pattern that I made for my dad perhaps 25 years ago. From my records, it was called Echoes - Jukebox Classic by Alli-Cat.

[@MsGabmc]

This is really helpful - thanks!

[@123Stitchdotcom]

You're welcome!

[@pegyounger3998]

Very clear directions for changing sizes, and ways to tighten clamps. Do you personally like Qsnap Best?

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Yes, I do primarily use Q-Snaps, but sometimes use a Nurge hoop as well.

[@loris9464]

There are other companies out there, that make the exact same product without the disadvantages. It's just that Q-snap came up with the idea, so they are the brand name that is often referred to.

[@NancyWaldeck]

Can I use these frames with heavier needlepoint canvas?

[@123Stitchdotcom]

I haven't tried it but I don't feel like Q-Snaps would work well with needlepoint canvas.

[@NancyWaldeck]

Thank you. I will try these with my embroidery.

[@margotgn]

My Q-snaps are quite old - pretty sure I got them when they were a new product. I have not had luck with the magnetic fabric holders - everything I use is attracted to the magnets and I find that annoying as I stitch.

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Yes, that can be annoying. Most of the time I tend to roll up the extra fabric and place the clamps over them. The Grime Guards are a big help as well.

[@diananelson3702]

I have a hard time getting the fabric square on the frame. Then when you tighten it, it pulls the fabric off grain. Any tips?

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Make sure you have enough extra fabric around the edges for the size of your Q-Snap. Then I like to use opposite sides first - top and bottom, before adding the sides. This usually lets me straighten it out easily in the frame.

[@HilltopStitching]

What do you do with all the extra fabric if you are working on a HAED. I have A LOT of fabric left out hanging.

[@itchingforstitching]

Grimeguard. :)

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Yes, Grime Guards are a good choice. You could also try the Cloth Keepers as they will hold a lot of fabric as well.

[@lisaboban]

I agree. Grime guards work for a few inches on fabric. But on a large project I might have 12 or more inches of fabric to wrangle on a couple of sides. I think the only viable solution is a much larger QSnap.

[@karincooks]

Hair claw clamps work great too!!

[@itchingforstitching]

@@karincooks Yeah! I have used those in a...pinch....sorry for the pun. ;)

[@suzannesnyder9694]

I LOVE my Q-snaps

[@marciastille5868]

I have always had issues getting the clamps off. Have torn my fabric. With arthritis in my hands it is hard. May try again.

[@123Stitchdotcom]

I understand arthritis in the hands for sure! Try tugging gently on the excess fabric and they will pop right off.

[@laurastreet7600]

Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge of q- snaps! I really enjoyed this video and benefitted on how to make different sizes especially with the 3 inch add on. Sometimes I have big projects like Ballet Beauty by Dimensions and have tried the 17 x 17 but find sometimes the fabric comes loose. So I like how you demonstrated how to get the different sizes which may work for those in between project sizes. This will be a great reference when I want to try one of those new sizes! Thank you so very much!

[@doragibson59]

Thanks for the tips for getting clamps off.

[@123Stitchdotcom]

You are very welcome!

[@joanietritschler9862]

Hello I’m interested in a quick demo on how to frame a cross stitch piece. I know there are a lot out there but I get lost in the video. Thanks

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Great suggestion! I'll do a framing video soon!

[@jennygranger4519]

Q - May I please ask the name of the pattern for the Mr and Mrs Claus stand ups in the background. Great Qsnap tutorial, thank you

[@123Stitchdotcom]

The are from Lizzie Kate and are called Needle Nick and Flossie Claus. www.123stitch.com/item/Lizzie-Kate-Needle-Nick-with-Embellishments-Cross-Stitch-Pattern/LK-21K www.123stitch.com/item/Lizzie-Kate-Flossie-Claus-with-Embellishments-Cross-Stitch-Pattern/LK-26K

[@jennygranger4519]

@ thank you so much

[@HometownStitcher-yy6fy]

Hi, I would love to do a Shephard bush stocking, but I am an aida stitcher. Will that work?

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Yes but keep in mind that most of the designs are stitched over 2 threads on an 18 or 20 Count fabric, making the equivalent in an Aida a 9 or 10 Count. You could use something smaller, like 14 Ct., but the finished size of the stocking will be much smaller.

[@cathypalmer1365]

A Very helpful video. Thanks

[@123Stitchdotcom]

You're welcome!

[@maryannhughes5388]

What if you have different brands I purchase most of mine by different brands I find not all Q-snaps fit with each other great video on it where did you find the extensions thank you for your hard work

[@123Stitchdotcom]

I have found, so far anyway, that all Q-Snap frames fit together. I haven't tried any of the other brands so can't answer to them. They may have a different configuration. You can purchase the extensions here: www.123stitch.com/item/Q-Snap-Qsnap-Frame-Extension-Piece/123-7799

[@123Stitchdotcom]

I don't have any experience with other brands, but the Q-Snaps all fit together. You can purchase the extension pieces here: www.123stitch.com/item/Q-Snap-Qsnap-Frame-Extension-Piece/123-7799

[@caralinehowden2951]

These frames seem a lot lighter than the ones I bought about 15 or so years ago. I gave up using them as they were heavy, therefore I wouldn't stitch for long. I think I would be inclined to use the lighter ones you are showing, will be in my future though.

[@SheilaSmith-x5k]

I love your Paula Vaughn piece.

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Thanks! It's one of my favorites!

[@karenann17]

Thank you an e extremely helpful video.

[@123Stitchdotcom]

I'm glad it was helpful!

[@TheTweetybabe1]

This is so helpful!!! Thank you!

[@susieconstant8873]

Should you remove the Q snap Frame every night?

[@123Stitchdotcom]

I remove it when I'm done stitching for the day to eliminate creases and so I can store my project in my bag.

[@LDecker-g8y]

Great video! Thank you.

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Glad you liked it!

[@josephbaron123]

When you want quality, the purchase of Q Snaps is the best bet. If you want cheap you are going to get just that with replacements are a sure thing. Off brands are not interchangeable with the Q snap brand. Overtime the cheaper brands do not hold the fabric securely in place causing the product to be a frustrating ordeal.

[@lorinicholas9139]

Very informative !!

[@123Stitchdotcom]

I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@lqbrock]

Very helpful!

[@craftecowgirl]

Should show how to clamp into backside of fabric. Place frame on front of design. That way clamps are always on backside of fabric. Its easier to stitch and end stitches this way. I have been doing it that way for over 25 years.

[@123Stitchdotcom]

I thought of showing that but ran out of time. I have never tried this method but know that a lot of people swear by it!

[@artgeek_of_bmore]

I've never heard or seen of this -- thanks for sharing. I mainly do loop starts, but can see how this would be helpful for ending stitches.

[@Be_wiem]

Pozdrowienia z Polski w oczekiwaniu na przesyłkę😊

[@loriesm1605]

Merci c'était traduit en francais. Je suis sur head et je pense sérieusement passer sur qsnap.

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Vous devriez les essayer ! Je pense que vous les aimerez beaucoup !

[@lisaboban]

4:02 I've never seen anyone recommend sliding the clamps like that. Particularly if you're working a large project where you might be clamping over existing stitches.

[@123Stitchdotcom]

I wouldn't slide over existing stitches, but if removing from the "extra" fabric, or fabric covering your stitches, then it should not be a problem.

[@annroberson8890]

I’ve heard that sliding helps keep from loosening.

[@suzannesnyder9694]

I call my grime collar my granny cap

[@nancybareiss7769]

The plastic huggers have left marks on my fabric.

[@123Stitchdotcom]

Oh no! I haven't seen that happen yet but something to watch for!

[@belannat9914]

I always put a piece of felt between clamps and fabric to protect it. May help.

[@nancybareiss7769]

@belannat9914 thank you

[@artgeek_of_bmore]

I didn't get marks from them but found them to just be ineffective -- like, they only worked on pieces where I had a very small amount of fabric to hold aside. The other two methods (magnetic holders and grime guards) are now my go-tos.

[@itchingforstitching]

🎅🏻

[@Sue_RedThread]

There are off brands out there that might be cheaper, but this is a case of you get what you pay for. The cheaper brands don’t hold the fabric tight, the clamps stretch and crack. They are generally garbage. Don’t settle for less!

[@loris9464]

Not true at all. I bought a set from Aliexpress and they have remained very tight, the clamps have never stretched or cracked and hold just as well if not better as they don't loosen over time, like the Q-snaps do (as noted in the video as well). No need to use special clamps or run in the dishwasher to get the clamps to tighten up as they don't get loose in the first place. A definite advantage over these more expensive q-snaps. They also come in various sizes and are interchangeable to make about any size you desire. They are designed the same and have all the advantages of Q-snaps, without all the disadvantages the brand name has.