Z Lap Frame Product Review

Updated December 1, 2023.
A problem that occurs with many lap frames is that they don’t adjust very well to a variety of different canvas sizes.

It’s too small, and the sides won’t get close enough to fit your bars. If it’s too big and it won’t open wide enough for the larger piece. With frames being expensive, this can be a problem for stitchers who don’t want several frames.

The K’s Creations Z Lap Frame solves this by holding the canvas on just one side, as some floor stands do.

Sturdily constructed of wood, it comes in two versions, one fitting scroll bars and one with a clamp for stretcher bars. I tested the clamp version.

First, because this frame has a solid base, you can use it on your lap or a table. The construction of the Z on the side, allows the frame to be folded down, so it packs pretty flat. This makes it excellent to take to classes.

The rectangular base also means that it’s stable even when it is not resting flatly in your lap. I could use it even with my feet up in a recliner.

The Z is made from 2 pieces of wood attached to a bar on one side of the base. Each of these can be adjusted because they are attached with screws and K’s signature plastic knobs. Another two smaller knobs are on the clamp. The knobs make it easy to loosen or tighten the components, so you can set your needlepoint at different angles and even flip it over easily to begin and end threads.

The Z will also allow you to adjust the height of the clamp so larger pieces can be done with this frame. I haven’t tried it on my bigger pieces, but I think pieces up to 12 or 14 inches will work if you clamp them in the middle. The clamp looks sturdy enough to use it with pieces at least this long.

I could open the jaws to fit mini and regular stretcher bars. As packaged, the clamp will not open far enough to use Evertites. To use these, you will need to replace the screws on the clamp with longer screws. These are easy to get at a hardware shop. They should be about 3″ long.

The major problem I had with this frame was that the side knobs would not stay tight and had to be adjusted often. This is probably because in your lap there is more movement which tends to loosen the knobs more. Since the knobs are easy to adjust, this isn’t a major problem.

If you haven’t used a stand that attaches on only one side before, you may be wondering where to put it. Put the clamp on your non-dominant side. This makes for easier stitching.

Flexible and easily portable, the Z Lap STand is great as a table and lap stand.