Counting stitches per inch
 

I realize the number of stitches per inch when hand quilting is not the issue, but the consistency. However, I am wondering how it is counted. Is it just the stitches that show on top of the quilt or the top and bottom?

I don't know, but I'm hoping it is top and bottom! I know that 10-12 stitches per inch is considered a good number, so if it was measured by just to top, they would be way too tiny for me to even imagine doing. Hopefully someone here will be more knowledgeable.

What I was told, many, many, years ago, is the stitches on top is what is counted. I just look at my consistency, as long as my stitches look the same I'm happy.

My understanding is that both top and bottom are counted, especially when the count is 12 stitches per inch or more.

I am confused, as I do not hand quilt, wouldn't 1 stitch be one stitch cycle: needle through top to bottom than bottom to top then down into the top again. If you count both top and bottom, wouldn't that give you twice the count?
Mike

Both methods of counting have been used. Which is "right" is hard to say; however, here is a link to a modern hand quilter who does say that counting the stitches on one side is the right way to go:
https://timquilts.com/2013/02/15/cou...ting-stitches/

The Amish girls that quilt for the "popular" Pa. stores are required to do 12 per inch, and that is the top. I know one who is at 10 and cannot sell her quilts to them. She wants to do more for me for practice. I will take 10, sounds good to me.

Prism99
Thank you for the info and link.
Mike

I'm so pleased to have looked at this link.... I've managed 7 stitches per inch... but i like thicker battings... and Mr Latimer emphasizes the greater importance of uniformity than stitch count! Plus...it's fun!! Happy Quilting!!!

You count one side only. That's what I learned anyway. It's hard to get 12 stitches to the inch, although some people can. I can't but I think the important thing is consistency over stitch size.