I do not have a stitch regulator either. As others have said, it just takes practice. I took a class at a LQS which gave me ideas as what to use for stitches, but mainly I learned that you just drop the feed dogs and start going. I do find the gloves with rubber on the finger tips help on large quilts. I bought myself a pair of gardening gloves that I use for free motion. Works great and cheaper than "quilters gloves". Practice and enjoy!!!