I know - I've got a YouTube video on how to use the Q-Snap embroidery frames for side clamps. I used them for years and had no intention of changing. Until....a friend bought these for me! They have a flat bottom, so you aren't as likely to bump into them and you can get away with a little less fabric on the sides. They come in 12" and 18" lengths, this item is the 18".The connectors are on sliders. I have modified mine with little clamps so that they don't slide. It's a control thing, do what works for the way you quilt!