Who counts? I agree with even and steady as one can. I think it depends on the project for the size and number of stitches (if you count). If I'm quilting cutesy I use a larger needle and stitches, if I'm quilting something average or delicate, I go for the smaller needle and stitches. If one really wants to be perfect (contest quality, I guess), there are quilters who space their stitches with an empty needle on the sewing machine and then hand quilt thru the holes. Never wanted to take the time to figure this one out.