I have looked and looked for a way to practice my Japanese embroidery when traveling or when I am learning a new technique in class. It's impossible to take a regular frame as it's too large. Then setting it up is another challenge. Well, quite by accident I found the perfect answer to my quest. This sturdy frame packs easily in my suitcase and is extraordinarily easy to set up using the lip of any table surface and 1 or 2 clamps. But, the most important thing is that the frame adjusts to keep the fabric taut while stitching. Two little tools tighten and firmly hold the fabric just as if it was in a Japanese frame. It's absolutely amazing!

As you can see above, I've photographed the introductory design, Golden Butterfly, using 2 sets of 8" pieces. There is a great deal of gold work on the butterfly so it was an excellent choice for this size frame. Although the frame above is square, you can mix and match sizes. In other words, if you have a design that requires a 10" x 6" frame, then just purchase a set of 10" pieces and a set of 6" pieces. Don't forget to order the Tool Set the first time you get the frames. After that, the tools work with all frame sizes.

Note: It is generally recommended to have the ground fabric at least 3" larger on the top, bottom and both sides of the outside edge of the design. However, if the design element is very small, you may wish to have 4" or 5" more fabric around the design if there is gold work. Moving the koma around in a small work surface is much harder than when you have more maneuvering room. Also, please keep in mind the width of each frame piece is 1.5". If there isn't enough fabric around the design, the design may overlap the edge of frame.

"Just writing to thank you for the Portable Stitching Frame and tweezers. Package arrived safe and sound last week.

I really am impressed - the frame is just so easy to use. It will be great for travel, but also as a practice frame beside the current (expensive) piece I may be working on. That way I have the freedom to experiment with techniques and colour combinations before actually stitching the "real" design and don't have to use expensive materials or do a lengthy lacing up process. I am sure that, like your other customers, I will be back for more sizes in the future." Iris Campbell, Australia November, 2008