I do both hand and machine quilting. I do love the hand quilted. Better to give the grandchildren, because of the personal touch. but do not worry about the small stitches try to just make them all the same size then later you can try for the smaller stitches. I use embroidery thread to baste my quilts . I take a stitch about a foot apart and I use the oval hoops. Much easier for me to handle. You will be so proud.
The machime quilts are beautiful, but the hand quilted are so special.