Abstract: A hooping apparatus and method for accurately orienting and hooping material to be embroidered. The apparatus preferably includes two plates connected in facing relationship by at least one U-shaped connector, and at least one support leg adjustable to support the apparatus in at least two positions. Both plates are preferably provided with a grid of fastener holes for attaching hoops and/or hoop brackets via fasteners to either plate. One plate is preferably rectangular and has a shoulder form which can be removable to change its orientation upon the first plate. The other plate is preferably U-shaped with two substantially flat elongated legs. The apparatus can preferably be placed in at least four positions: a first position in which the support leg is not used and in which the plates are only slightly reclined for draping garments such as jackets, shirts, vests, etc.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for securing embroidery hoops to a hooping work surface without requiring substantial movement of the hoops with respect to the work surface during attachment and detachment operations. The apparatus preferably includes a body having a ledge defined by a recessed lower surface beneath the ledge, a lip running along the upper edge of the ledge, and a groove running alongside the lip on the upper edge of the ledge. Preferably, the recessed lower surface has an abutment surface which is in the form of a step. The ledge preferably fits in a conventional hoop attachment device between a wedge and a flat lower surface (facing the wedge) of the hoop attachment device. The wedge of the conventional hoop attachment device preferably fits within the groove of the body, while the flat lower surface of the conventional hoop attachment device preferably fits within and abuts against the abutment surface of the body.

Abstract: An apparatus for facilitating the framing of target portions of garments in hoops for attachment to embroidery machines or the like. The apparatus includes a workboard adjustably mounted to a base and movable between garment-mounting and hooping positions, a garment-supporting form secured to the workboard, and members for removably attaching one of the hoops.