I've just learned handquilting. Sometimes my stitches on top & bottom look the same and other times the bottom isn't as nice. Also, I can usually tell as I'm going from the top thru the batting and bottom layers because it has a different "feel" to it. Then other times esp. if I'm tired I have to always look for awhile to see if stitch is thru. I also like the Hobbs Heirloom batting for handquilting. Keep at it. It does get better. I find it so relaxing.