Welcome from Ontario, Canada. I do mostly machine quilting now but I used to do a lot of hand quilting. Try for even stitches rather then small at first. As you get better you will be able to get more stitches per inch. I used a metal thimble with a ridge around the edge on my right hand to help load my needle. I am more comfortable loading my needle going from right to left so I choose designs to go that way. Use good quality hand quilting thread and Gutermann’s was my favourite. I liked to hand quilt in a lap hoop.