I use these

I have an assortment of sizes.

You put craft or masking tape along the edges of your canvas so your floss doesn't snag and then use thumb tacks to get the canvas tight.

This is a handy tool and saves your thumb.

I also use a floor stand to hold the frame so I have both hands free.

The stand I love seems to be discontinued =/

I have never done a needlepoint without using stretcher bars.