slim line clamp

[Debbie Rinehart]

I recently bought some Topper computer bags and can't seem to hoop one of their newest high end styles that looks like a ladies purse. I thought I'd look into the slimline clamping system but after reading some of the past posts, I have a couple questions. 1. How does the clamp attach to the article 2. does it attach to the inside of the article as well as the outside (such as the inside of a bag pocket) 3. Will it work on something stiff such as briefcase material 4. what size works on the back of hats and is that the same size as one you'd use to put a logo on the front of the pocket of a briefcase. I would like to get one that does both, if possible. Would that size cost around $110. THANKS!! Debbie

[Debbie Rinehart]

Still wondering if anyone with the slimline clamp system can help me by answering my original post from last evening. THANKS, Debbie

[signman]

Debbie, the clamping systems are great-since we got ours I don't think I"ve used the regular hoops for anything except backs and shirts/sweats that don't have a button down neck. Just so much easier with the clamp. Think of it as a flat hoop-not an 'inside and outside ring' that grip by one sliding inside the other-but a pair of almost matching steel 'frames' that grip by a strong spring clamp that holds them together with the material between them. No good for large heavy objects-or jackets, or sweatshirts...there is no room 'behind' the hinge for excess material to go. So there is a limited 'reach' for the clamps. On tote bags, portfolios, the clamp only grabs the material you will be sewing on and the rest has to hang down below and still allow room for the needle plate/bobbin 'nose' to get in there. Most of the smaller totes I have still can't be done on the pockets-because as soon as the design moves sideways the 'nose' pulls the material right off the hoop. Try stuffing your hand into the pocket and make a fist-then see if there is any room left to move sideways and you'll see what happens.
I have the 3.5 x 6.5 and 6.5 x 6.5 (or whatever it is-there are only two sizes for the 'smaller' clamp). I've done some hat bags, and use the 3.5 for that. Did 50 beanie hats in december-using the 6.5 clamp and a 'roll' of 4" tearaway by feeding it through as we sewed-instead of cutting it into separate pieces for each hat.
NO waste at all and it really speeded things up.
Dress shirts, the clamps are great, but jackets...not really-the thicker hem and zipper can prevent the clamp from holding tight if you can't get them out of the way.
If it does work for a portfolio/briefcase-you may want to slide a 'box' under the 'nose' to hold the weight of the item up-it will really pull the clamp down and that can cause needle binding and breaking.

[Debbie Rinehart]

Thanks so much Signman!! I just bought some top of the line briefcases/laptop bags and not sure this will work. The one item the ladies likes is Toppers newest model that looks like a purse;(#5517. They show a big picture of it on their site. I have 3 ladies wanting one (one has already paid me $40. for it) but I'm not sure the bag's pocket opens far enough to allow the bobbin arm to move freely. How much was each of the 2 sizes of clamps you have? Did you get them from Melco? THANKS AGAIN for the quick response. I have to act quickly or I'll be forced to return the one ladies money!!! Debbie

[Boomer]

We are going to the ISS Show in Atlantic City this Friday 03/09.One of the items we are interested in is the Slim Line.We should be able to get more info and we will try to pass it on as soon as possible.Hopefully it will be soon enough for you. It does seem as though Signman has experience with it and can give you enough info.Good Luck

[Image Embroidery]

I have the HoopTech System ICTCS.
I purchased it specifically because I am a Carhartt dealer and I do ALOT of jackets.
Works great!
LuAnn