These are so much better than the wooden hoops I've used over the years. The wooden hoops are good to have if you're going to use them for something like a dream catcher which I have made but they are not very strong. I only used the inner part of the hoops for my dream catchers and covered them with thin suede. They are inexpensive.For embroidery however, the plastic ones are much better. Very sturdy and no fear of them breaking. The extra pieces it comes with also are very nice. The scissors get up close and the needles seem very high quality. Very good material for the price. Overall great buy and I highly recommend.