I read all the replies and didn't see an answer to your question so I will try and help. I aim for 8 - 10 stitches per inch but personally I think it depends on the quilter, I am just counting the stitches you see as in - - - - - - - is 7 stitches. But when it comes down to it, consistency is far nicer that tiny stitches in my opinion. Mind you I am not a judge, I just enjoy the quilting part of it. lol