Just to add my two cents: Hand Quilting needs practice. It will need some time until you find the right tension of the quilt in your hoop, the best needle size ( I perfer a #11)and the technique you want. Try different tools and ways to quilt and just practice! Eveness is more important than the stitch length, this will probably change with practice. Have fun!

I don't use a hoop either. I learned to hand quilt without one and then could never could get the hang of using a hoop or frame at all.

all great advice...The other thing i'll add is when i push my needle down thru the fabric, I push it back up almost immediately....and get my rocking motion going. I will also say that i like cotton batting better because my needle seems to fall thru poly battings (like mountain mist).

I also use a size 10 needle, needles shorter than that, i have a hard time holding on to.

Just a thought mammafank, what about giving this a try: http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-89083-1.htm I am a starter hand quilter and I needed practise and a quilting friend suggested "Big stitc quilting" terrific exercise and feel more confident now :-D

And what makes those pretty is that the stitches are even....I think that's the most important part, working on making stitches even. But, i quilt in a couple different quilting groups, everyone's stitching is different, but in the end, the project still looks great and the fun is unbeatable!!

I would recommend not too small a hoop - I use a large oval.

Thanks for all the tips. I loved the large stitch quilting as it was just so visible and the quilt I am making is a folk art so that might actually look pretty good and I am sure I can do that.

We have about 4-5 inches here in Monroe area. More snow than ice here. But Atlanta has been brought to a stand still. There is a certain comfort in being snowed in----stay in the warm flannel pants, sit in front of the fireplace and sip lots of warm drinks and no reason to go anywhere. Being retired means it really does not matter at all.

I also like the large stitch. I haven't done it yet but I think it would be fun to do!
And if you are a beginning hand quilter it seems that it would be a good way to practice!!

http://inlinethumb01.webshots.com/43...200x200Q85.jpg This was my first attempt and I am chuffed with it, so quick as well.