Having properly stretched fabric is a MUST when it comes to working with punch needle. If it's not stretched all the way it'll be hard to punch, your hand will hurt and your loops will not be even.
Using no-slip hoops is the easiest way to achieve the best stretch because they hold the fabric really well and you don't have to constantly re-stretch like with regular wooden hoops.
I have 3 sizes in my store:
https://www.myraandjean.com/