[HNW] Re: Slate frames

[Amy Wilson]

I have one of the 12" size slate frames that Linn talks about.  I bought it
from the Grip-It booth at a needlework show after trying it in one of Linn's
classes.  As Linn said, it's very sturdy and built for life.  It holds the
work at a very even, taut tension and is far superior to stretcher bars or
hoops.  If you are a serious stitcher and you aspire to professional-level
work, it's worth the investment.  The frame is heavy, though, so plan to
work hands-free, either by propping it against a table edge or getting a
frame holder that can handle a thick, heavy frame.  I already had a Grip-It
"Sit on It" which I love, and its jaws grip the frame just fine, although
the frame is a little too heavy for it.  I think Grip-It sells gravity
adjusters that will take of that; I haven't looked into it.  My advice would
be to call Grip-It and let them help you figure out what you need (standard
disclaimer applies, no affiliation, etc.).

Linn, how do you hold your slate frame when you work on it?

Amy


> They don't have them up on the site. They don't have any inlays but they ar=
> e VERY sturdy.  They used my set from the RSN as a prototype.  They make a =
> 12 and a 24" size.  They can custom make other sizes.  Some of the folks on=
> the list own them and can give you some feedback.
>
> Slate frames in general are not inexpensive  (my larger RSN set ran about $=
> 150 some years ago) because they require some rather precision woodworking =
> if they are going to be of any use and hold your ground fabric true.  They =
> are a lifetime investment - they never wear out.
>
> Linn