First, your top is beautiful! I big stitch 90% of my quilts, so I say go for it! I would use Perle #8, not 5 as #8 is a little smaller and easier to pull through the 3 layers. (May be why some have had issues) I also use 12wt thread by Aurifil or Sulky. Variegated threads are fun to work with. I use Thimblelady XL needles or chenille needles. My stitches are 4-6 per inch, so aren't huge and I have no problems making them even. They look good on the back as well, but that comes with practice. Machine quilting to me is harder and more frustrating as I try to wrestle a big quilt through a small machine. I can big stitch a quilt fairly quickly if I spend some time on it every day and it's a simple pattern.