Traditional Slate Frame

I am a very new embroiderer. I've tried to pick it up several times, but I always ended up deciding very quickly that it wasn't for me. However, with long-COVID, I really needed to find stimulating and enjoyable activities which can be done while seated. So, on the last try, I kept pushing myself to continue; doing frequent searches online for information which would help me achieve results which were not embarrassing, and that led me to references to slate frames, which, in turn, brought me to Jenny's incredibly informative YouTube video on slate frames, and her site.

I ordered a 12" slate frame from her, and a beautifully crafted frame made with lovely wood, and with quality fittings arrived (in the United States) within a week. I mounted the embroidery I had started, a rather sleazy kit from China, and achieved perfect tension. Immediately, my stitching improved tremendously. I absolutely love that I can pick it up and stitch as I have time and energy, without having to phutz around getting it back in a hoop, adjust the tension (again and again), and remove it each session in an attempt to mitigate hoop marks. I took this with me to a days long meeting, and would pick it up and stitch while I listened to speakers, or had free time visiting with friends, and was surprised that people thought my stitching was lovely, though not that people wanted to know about the frame. Several asked where to order one; and at least two of them told me before the end of the meetings that they were going to order one.

I've now finished a second piece of embroidery, which turned out really well. I've also ordered and received a second slate frame, 15", as the 12" was just large enough for the first piece, and I know I shall want to attempt larger pieces. I'm afraid I ordered that rather late in the evening, and managed to make an error on the order form, plus needed to order some extra pins, and I cannot begin to convey how incredibly helpful Jenny and her team were in straightening that out. I'm sure I'll be back for at least one larger slate frame in future, but in the meantime, the 12" and 15" will continue to work well with the Lowery stand I've also obtained.

I’m a relatively new embroiderer and was frustrated using a hoop because I felt like I was spending more time tightening the fabric than doing actual embroidery. This 24 inch slate frame is not only a beautifully crafted object but so amazingly functional . Jenny’s Instructional video on dressing a slate frame was a tremendous resource for me. It all came together beautifully and I’m happily working away. Such a worthy investment.

I was delighted to receive my 24" slate frame. It looks very well made and is lovely to handle. It feels so special having one hand crafted here in Britain. I am looking forward to using it for my larger sewing projects for many years to come. Now the adventure begins. Many thanks to you both.

I’ve now ordered 2 frames from
Jenny and have to say that they are both beautiful. I definitely would recommend.

Thank you so much for such a beautiful slate frame.
Clearly made with love.

Thank you for my order. I had to wait for stock, but it was worth it. Fabulous frame and I look forward to using it on my next embroidery. ?

I could not be happier with my purchase. I was very apprehensive about purchasing a slate frame and was unsure if I could dress the frame adequately. However, I watched the video by Jenny and had no trouble at all. The fabric is drum tight, and I am ready to start my gold work class. I am waiting to purchase the 24" frame when it is available, as I have a design from the Crewel Work company that I will be working on soon. Thank you so much for providing this beautiful frame. I am fortunate to own such exquisite craftsmanship, and I look forward to many hours of stitching on this frame.

These slate frames are beautifully made and wonderful to use. I am a recent convert to slate frames having tried so many other options, I won't be going back! For the first time I can work a large project on a frame which has good even tension- and stays that way.
These frames are so well made compared with others available and they are locally made in the UK so what's not to like. I have an 18-inch frame set up, it's totally stable and the fabric is drum-tight, a real joy to stitch on.
If you have not used a slate frame before, please don't be put off, that bit of work at the start of the project is well worth it and the instructional YouTube videos explain it all very well.

I just received the frame
It is superb
The wood smells great
Its honey brown color is gorgeous
The beechwood is light
Its soft finishes are just what I was looking for
What a poem

Thanks again

Received my slate frames today and thrilled with my purchase. Peter’s work is impeccable!!
After seeing this perfection I have ordered the hand made trestles to complete my workspace. Absolutely recommend these slate frames. Thank you so much.

They say a well made slate frame will last you a lifetime and that is exactly what you get here. The craftsmanship shines through, the wood is beautifully shaped and so smooth. The beech is incredibly strong and yet surprisingly lightweight for something so solid. Fully laced the frame shows no sign of stress or movement.
The YouTube tutorial will gently walk you through each stage and offers an education that will dispell any fears for first timers. Not only will you know how to dress your frame, you'll learn why it is dressed this way.
Following the tutorial I managed to lace a fine silk paj into the frame without any issue. The tension achieved was staggering; "drumtight" doesn't do it justice. But what was really shocking was my silk was completely unharmed. No puckering or striping, just next level, uniform and on grain tension.
The frame (12") fits comfortably in my lowery stand - I wrapped some felt around the frame for a little added protection.
The service was top notch throughout and incredibly friendly. I will most definitely be back for more.

They both arrived today all I can say is WOW beautiful craftsmanship. When I work out what other sizes I require I will most certainly be back. Thank you the feel of the wood is luxurious.

Many thanks for my slate frame which arrived safely today. It certainly is of beautiful quality. I look forward to starting a new project and I know it will help me enormously.