I use the forceps when I quilt.
Love your stitches.
Mine are not that even, but I love hand quilting.

New quilter question. How do you count the number of stitches--count only those that are I can see on your picture? that would be 8 to the inch?

This was the tool that was always a part of my mom's hand quilting and she did amazing quilting! Now I don't think she can remember how to do quilting anymore...it is sad but at least I have her quilts and they are priceless to me!

I use a "finger condom", Dang can't remember the name. That way I don't have to stop and pick up another tool to finish. Thimble on middle finger, "condom" on index finger, works great!

Hancocks carries the little "needle pullers" comes in a 3 pack. Little rubber grippers about the size of a nickle, made out of the same stuff you use to open jars. You can lay it on top of your quilt while you are quilting. I've been using these for about 20 years or so, love them.

Funny you should ask that question, I asked the same question two weeks ago. I was told you count every time needle goes up and down. I'm new too, and many answers I just can't find in books.

I found the thread/needle puller in the Newark dressmaker supply catalog for $5.25 and home-sew has them too(both have the same mailing address) Both have web sites. Hope this helps.

According to some 6 is average, 8 accomplished, 10 expert, 12 professional, 14 microquilter.
but the idea is to get them equal in length, which is the hard part for me. Yours are beautiful Grannie Rosie

Wow! Such beautiful little stitches! I don't hand quilt - just admire it from afar.

They say that necessity is the Mother of Invention. How very clever of you, it's amazing how many uses little hand tools can have, even inexpensive ones. I've often purchased small tools from the dollar store. I must, however, comment on your absolutely beautiful quilting stitches. You have definitely master hand quilting. Thanks for sharing.