I used to do hand quilting. I agree with Quilting Krazy about needle that feels right to you. You do need an eye big enough for hand quilting thread as it is fatter. Also, be careful to only have about 12". It will thin as you take it thru the layers. You might want to have some wax on hand to help it glide, but don't use too much. Again, stitches per inch isn't as important as being consistent. Try to get use to making the stitch length the same each time. I would put everything on the table. If you can use 505 spray batting, it will help with keeping everything in place. I think I use to use BIG safety pins and then made really large basting stitches to keep it all together. Will you be putting your quilt on a frame or using hoops?