My only hint is I use a "warm up" piece. So at night, when I curl up to hand quilt for a bit, I start by stitching on a "warm up" piece. Once my fingers and hands get into a rhythm I switch over to my project.
I make a "warm up" piece from leftover quilt squares etc. that will eventually become potholders, or mug rugs etc. Things that don't require the finest stitching I can produce!
Good luck! Sounds like you're going great so far!!!