Originally Posted by sewcrafty

The one thing I haven't seen mentioned is Tiger Tape. When I started out handquilting I purchased the 9 per inch and played with that. I would make a sandwich and lay the tape down and practice going up and down with the markings. You sort of start feeling the rythym of the rocking motion of the stitch. Then its practice, practice, practice.

I agree that poly is easier to needle, but I do needle W&N and my stitches aren't as small. Also, as already stated, you need to make sure that the quilt in the hoop is loose or you'll really have a devil of a time. I use my fist to gauge the looseness.

What is Aunt Becky?
Since you're just starting off really, why not train yourself with the Aunt Becky? I'm thinking of trying to convert myself over this as my carpal tunnel hasn't been too good for hand quilting lately and there's much less movement of the right hand.

Good Luck!