The Quilt Halo, designed by Sharon Schamber - author, teacher and master quilter .
At Sharon's workshop on domestic machine quilting she demonstrated her
Quilt Halo. The Quilt Halo is a 7 inch diameter metal ring with a slightly tacky PVC coating. It sits on top of your fabric for free-motion quilting or embroidery and the weight of the ring keeps the fabric taut while the height gives you something to hold and manoveure.
The red covering of the Quilt Halo is rubbery to feel, allowing the Quilt Halo to grab the fabric, keeping it taut with minimal pressure, enabling you to have the control needed for smooth sewing.
I found using the Quilt Halo reduced neck and shoulder strain and I'm guessing it would be excellent for sufferers of arthritis and carpal tunnel.
Sharon also used two or even three rings stacked on top of each other to give a firmer weight and hold.
To watch a demonstration how to use the Quilt Halo, watch Sharon on You Tube.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpmMYIDCrZw