probably the best answer to RenaB is......
ego

Sorry for the double post. I leaned on the computer.

However, we do admire the hand quilted with the finest and smallest stitches. On the other hand, it is the quality of the stitch that judges often look at and not the quantity.
A larger but even stitch, penetrating into the back in an even way (not the same size) might overshadow the fine close stitches that don't have quality on the back.

I'm so glad to hear that. I've been doing some hand quilting recently and my stitches are anything but small. I decided not to worry about size and just try to make them even. These are quilt as you go blocks. Hopefully by the last block I'll have it mastered.

I found that mine were getting better the more I worked on my first project. I think its a matter of practice but SPI can also be affected by the type of fabric, type of batting, needles used etc. I am definately not a master!

One stitch is going down through the layers to the back and coming back up. So you would only count the stitches you see on the top. The thread showing on the back is part of the stitch showing on the top. Does that make sense?

I've been handquilting for years and have never worried about stitches per inch.

My Grandmother taught me that what you are doing is the right way, not worrying about size, just making them even. The smaller stitches will come once you master the even stitches.

LOL! What a great remark! I guess we count when someone asks. ;-) ;-)

Jan in VA

I like this answer best of all. Thanks, everyone!

I don't count. I know I have small stitches and I like the way they look numbers don't matter to me.

I'm too lazy to go find a quilt and count my stitches. When I first started I knew nothing about quilting and only a little about weaving. I ended up counting the threads in the fabric to make even stitches. Four threads of the material per stitch. Didn't know any better and turned out OK. Nice even stitches. Whatever worked.