Big stitch Quilting - hoop or no hoop?

[Pearl]

I have wanted to do big stitch quilting for a while, have been watching videos and am thinking the Mystery Quilt may be the opportunity I've been looking for.  But I'm not sure whether to you a hoop or not.  Should I add 'quilting hoop' to my FOQ shopping list?   TIA

[Lowena]

It's personal taste Pearl. I started by using a hoop but didn't get on with it at all. Too restricting and not comfortable as the work has to be quite loose and floppy inside the hoop ( unlike embroidery ). I mark the quilt and sometimes ( if it's a big quilt ) pin around the section I'm going to do ( curved safety pins ). I start from the middle and work outwards, as with machine quilting.
I find it very relaxing and surprisingly quick to do. I use Perle thread no8. The only proviso I have is not to have too long a length od thread ( tempting ) as it tangles quite easily.
Hope that helps a tad 

[Pearl]

Thanks, Low.  I think I might get one just in case.  What type of needles do you use?

[Lowena]

Size 8 or 9 embroidery needles 

[Pearl]

TY