so much wonderful advice here, you probably don't need my two cents :-) . (plus, I haven't read through all the pages - naughty me...) but:
1. my machine allows me to set it to a slower speed, and I do; before this machine, I just used a gentle touch on the foot pedal. Slow and steady wins the race.
2. Use a paper and pencil and draw your loopy meanderings.
3. Each time your loops become Points (hey! it happens!), stop sewing, hold your finger in the air and "Draw" your loopy quilting. This helps your brain and hand Connect, and helps you to slow down.
Like everyone here has said, it's all in the practicing. And even though this particular quilt will not be perfect, it will have been made with Love and the Highest of Intentions... and that's what it's really all about.
Charity quilts are Beautiful things. xoxo