Hand-quilting is something that takes practice!!!! :D I've hand-quilted for years and if I don't do it for awhile my stitch count goes down. I usually do between 10-12. 12 when carpal isn't acting up. I try not to take any more than 3 stitches at a time, otherwise it is very hard to pull your needle through. The most important thing is to relax and enjoy it!!! Once this is accomplished, then work on getting your stitches smaller, say with the tiger tape. I practice on sandwiches with straight lines and curves with the tiger tape until I felt the rythym that you get. Atleast that's what happened for me.
Good Luck and remember to enjoy!!!