In this video, we demonstrate several optional attachments for the Toyota ESP 9100. First, we cover the clamping device, which is useful for attaché cases, luggage, and other small or hard-to-hoop areas. Depending on the material, backing may or may not be needed. To hoop the item, we slide the bag through the clamping plates, keeping it as straight as possible, and then use the lever to bring the clamp down. As with the carpet master, the tubular arms must be removed before securing the attachment to the pantograph, and it installs in one specific location using a 3 mm Allen wrench.
Next, we show the jacket back kit, which includes a hoop and a frame that attaches to the machine. When installing the frame, we make sure the washers rest on top of the pantograph arm on both sides before securing it. To hoop the garment, we place backing so it fully covers the area, then lay the jacket or garment flat and position the inner hoop, keeping everything as straight as possible. Because these items are usually bulkier than standard tubular-hooped garments, we check the tension carefully. We remove as much wrinkling as possible and use the two-finger test to avoid the fabric creating a snowplow effect. The goal is taut, not tight, using only gentle tugs while paying attention to the grain so the fabric is not warped or distorted.
Once the garment is hooped, we attach it to the frame by starting on the right-hand side and sliding it through the long notch, then moving to the left-hand side. We tighten the wing nuts by hand on both sides, move the fabric out of the way, and the garment is ready to embroider. Finally, we introduce the border frame, which is designed for large piece work such as Celtic dresses or multiple designs that will later be removed and sewn onto finished pieces. The border frame includes the main frame, four longer posts for the long sides, and four shorter posts for the short sides. To hoop with this frame, we lay backing under the material, keep the fabric straight, place the longer clamps on the top and bottom, and then place the shorter clamps on the sides.
To mount the border frame, the tubular arms must again be removed. The frame attaches to the machine at the two farthest posts on each side, with the screws positioned on top. After attaching it, we make sure the machine is set to border in hooping mode before starting embroidery.
If you're working with jacket backs, clamps, or large flat pieces, take a look at hoops and hoopers.