awwww- be patient with yourself! I am still a newbee, and we have to learn somehow, your stitching looks fine, just remember that 10 foot rule, and you will be fine, good for a first try anyway! I think I am going to try it next go around for the doll quilt and see what takes place! keep up the good work. and I like what you have done.
oh and quit tensing up when you do the hand stitching, it is really supposed to be relaxing, and so is knitting....crocheting etc..