I do only handquilting. I use a hoop. I think it is 18 or 21 inch oval. I keep it snug enough to pull out all the wrinkles for a smooth back. I use a #7 between quilting needle. It is small. About an inch long. I put my left hand under the quilt and use my finger nail as a feeler to aid my needle. You can rock your needle in and out. Beleive it or not a smaller needle gives a smaller stitch. I have won ribbons with my handquilting. Just relax and take the work out of it and enjoy what you are doing. Don't be tense worring about every little stich in the back. you will learn the feel of your needle coming through and going back in. Hope this helps you. I have used thick and thin batting and the snugger it is in your hoop the easier to go through. Hope this helps. I can show better than I can tell. Good liuck. Relax! Oh yea, almost forgot. I use a thimble with a rim on it to prevent the needle slipping. It really helps to control ypour needle.