6 inch wooden embroidery hoop made by Elbesse
 
Made in the UK, these sturdy, high quality hoops are a must have for freehand machine embroidery.
 
Wooden hoops are essential to my mind for freehand, as plastic hoops stick to the machine preventing freedom of movement. 
 
These strong hoops will keep your work drum tight, to help avoid any gathering whilst stitching and prevent your work pulling into the bobbin and causing machine problems or damage to the stitch work. 
 
I use these smaller hoops for smaller, more intricate work and simply move the hoop when required when I reach the edges. 
 
I would recommend that you cut off long strips of cotton or satin to wrap around and bind the hoop, securing in place with a few stitches. This prevents the work from any damage and lessen the ring mark.