I fully understand the batting issue. I will be doing either hobbs 80/20 or poly for this baby quilt. I have tried my thimble on every finger except my pinky lol. I will be looking into other types of thimbles down the road. I have been doing some practicing each day and will continue until I am ready to hand quilt this next project. By then, I should have tons of practice and the stitching should be good. I don't plan on whipping the top out in a speedy fashion. Won't even be starting it until next week.
I watched a video from craftsy about perle cotton quilting. She said this little tip that I have not read or heard yet " how far the needle goes through the back is how big the stitches will be". I found this interesting. I am not sure if it pertains to just perle cotton or not . I really don't see how the type of thread would affect this saying. She even mentioned up to 1/4" stitches is fine as you want to work on consistency. in time the stitches will get smaller.So, I did find those interesting. For a beginner like myself, I would be happy if I could get all my stitches 1/4" in length. Haven't tried to yet, but there is always tomorrow. I may even take a moment or two and mark out 1/4" dots and see how close I get.
I learn in a unique way. So, sometimes the visual I have to mark where others can just eye ball it. I know in time I will be eye balling measurements like all you excellent quilters. But I am happy. I really enjoyed my practice time this morning. Even though I bent a needle I am getting better at rocking the needle. 1/2 of my practice stitches were very very close to the same size.
You all have been a great help and very supportive. Thank you and have a great quilting day.