I'm a passionated hand quilter for more than 20 years and the main thing I found out for me is how important it is to find one's own way of handquilting. There are many opportunities to get a good result. Some quilters use a frame or hoop, others do not. Some use a thimble, others don't. Some need a longer needle, others a short one. What works best for you can be bad for somebody else. Just give it a try! You will find many good tips here on the board.