Since i need to do the basting and quilting first.....before the binding... do you prefer to hand quilt or machine quilt and why? Thanks for your advice. I have seen a lot of pics and see how talented you all are so any advice is greatly appreciated :)

I prefer hand quilting. It is relaxing to me. It takes a lot longer but I love the look of it. I am an old fashioned girl.

Machine quilting for me. I don't have the patience for hand-quilting (although I REALLY like the look of it), and don't have strong enough up-close eyesight for it to do it for long.

The last one I just cheated and did the ties in it :O shhh. I want to do this one right all the way though. It is for my man for christmas!

I prefer hand quilting. I love the look and feel of it.And I enjoy doing it.

I have not really tried my hand on any hand sewing is it difficult or just time consuming? I have plenty of time....if it is something you think a beginner could handle.

Yes it is a simple running stitch. It is not difficult. just time consuming to get the stitches consistent. Consistency is key. Don't stress out when your stitches are not consistent in the beginning. and as you do more the stitches will get smaller. your needle size will determine the size of the stitches.

What is the best size needle for hand quilting or does it depend on certain things?

Betweens are for quilting. They are very small and thin. Start with something larger if you prefer. To start with a between might be more frustrating then you need. Get the hang of it with the smallest needle you feel comfy with then move on to a between. You need to get used to a thimble too.

So I need to get a thimble, needles, the pencil to write on the quilt, quilters frame, anything else?