Originally Posted by dgreen
I was reading another post by all the people who love hand quilting. I was very surprised at the number of people who say it is relaxing. I did some hand quilting and it was exhausting. My right hand became so cramped I don't know how anyone could enjoy it. Could some of you hand quilters give some tips, or maybe even post a few pics on how you actually hold the needle and push it. Do you make your stitches sideways (needle quilting parallel to your body), or toward you (the direction a sewing machine would be sewing)? Would really like some teaching. Thanks!
Am left handed and work any way the stencil dictates, use thimble on thumb to push needle through, rock needle in several times before pulling through. Don't be aggresive---relax and don't hump shoulders over work.