Fast Frames is a handy hooping system for multi-needle machines. Durkee EZ Frames works the same way as Fast Frames. You attach an arm to your machine and replace the hoop section with various size metal frames. The difference between the two hooping systems lies in the thickness of the metal, the weight of the hoops, and the number of connectionp points. Fast Frames’ metal arm and hoops, while equally sturdy as its competitor, aren’t as thick, which allows it it use more sizes of clips. Durkee’s system has slightly thicker metal, giving it more weight, which allows it to bounce less during embroidery. Durkee EZ Frames has 2 connection points to Fast Frames 3 connection points. Durkee has 2 screw-on knobs to attach the hoop to the arm, while Fast Frames has 2 post holes and one screw-on knob. This makes Fast Frames take slightly less time to change the hoop section, as only one screw knob has to be loosened instead of two knobs.
While the manufacturers recommend using sticky-back stabilizer with the hoops, it creates a clean-up problem on the metal hoop sections.
One solution for keeping the hoop clean is to wrap the hoops with painter’s tape before applying sticky-back stabilizer to the underside of the hoop. Replace the tape as needed when it gets too gunked up by the sticky-back stabilizer.
Another solution is to use SupaClips to attach the stabilizer to the hoops. The smaller size 40 SupaClips fit Fast Frames, while the larger size 60 fits the Durkee EZ Frames. SupaClips and the clip dispenser can be purchased as a set on Amazon.
Small office supply binder clips also hold fabrics and stabilizer to the frames. These clips can be purchased at office supply stores as well as at places like Dollar Tree.
An even easier solution is to use a white plastic molding originally made for paneling. These pieces are called paneling end caps and can be found at your local building supply store. The thinner end cap pieces fit Fast Frames, while the thicker end cap pieces fit the Durkee EZ Frames. (Links to both products are below.) To see just how easy it is to apply stabilizer to Fast Frames or Durkee EZ Frames, the video below shows how to cut the plastic molding end caps to size and attach stabilizer to the hoop.
Fast and Easy Stabilizer Application to Fast Frames and EZ Frames
Trim Purchased:
Durkee EZ Frames:
1.125-in x 96-in White Plastic End Cap in the Tile Board Moulding department at Lowes.com
Fast Frames:
Sequentia 0.865-in x 8-ft Prefinished Vinyl Wall Panel Moulding in the Wall Panel Moulding department at Lowes.com