I thought I was the only guy who still used a hoop for anything. They're handy for doing beading, too, but can be a bi--- for heavier leather. I ended up making two of different sizes just for that.
Wish my hands worked well enough for that small work these days.
My appendages do not seem up to the task either. I have a hard time just picking up beads on a needle.
You folks that can "do" beadwork amaze me no end. The few times I tried I consistantly break threads, break beads, mangle the material, somehow mismatch beads and I end up with bulges and stacks and.....
The absolute worst part - the "completed" pathetic bundle of beads ended up with a rats-nest layer of thread on the backside that almost doubles the thickness of the material in use!
This in spite of hands on instruction, coaching, and supervision from my Lovely Spousal Unit who can "just whip out" lazy stitch, peyote stitch, bead weaving, loom work, and is working on learning quill work (not her favorite)
Beadworkers, I salute you.
yhs
Prof Marvel