I am the renegade!! As a beginner, you may it very hard to use and do what many have done for years. Do not start on a precious heirloom. I started hand quilting while waiting to take a class. I used whatever I had available, including any needle in the pincushion. I also found I do not like using a hoop. I quilt in my lap. There are several videos out on the how-to's of hoopless. Try to keep the thread reasonable, even though it is tempting to use a longer one so you don't have to thread so often. Don't, instead load several needles. Ad last but not least, just do a little at a time, your hands will thank you. And no matter how awful it is take pictures, close pictures with a ruler to show those stitches, so you can compare next year and see how you have improved!! One more, your flannel backing may be making it harder than a cotton backing. Good Luck, I know once you get comfortable, you will LOVE it!!!!