Quilt in a Day Forums

When you hand quilt, how big should the stitches be and how far apart? Maybe someone has a close up picture they could post that would show it ... I hope.

Judy

Hi Judy, 10 stitches per inch is the goal. But, Billie Lauder's website shows her big stitch method which is what would do,lol! That's me though. Amie

I hand quilt all the time and the idea is to make the stitches as close together as possible. However first you concentrate on getting them even. And in time, practice makes perfect. My first quilt, when I look at it is terrible. Always use "betweens" needles. Start with an 8 or 9 size then you can work up to a samller one. The larger the number the smaller the needle. I use a 10 because I can not thread a 12 LOL. And remember if you are pleased with your work, thats all that counts. Marge

I've taken a couple of hand quilting classes and the instructors alway tell us consistancy is more important that size. Size will come.

Oh my I sure can't do 10 stitches per inch. Mine never come out the same size. I get so frustrated when I do hand quilt. So I don't do it very often.

The reason I asked was because I Googled hand-stitching for pictures and saw this. How many years would it take to duplicate the beautiful stitching in this feather motif?!? This is the most incredible stitching I've ever seen.

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:-0 OMG that sure is beautiful! NEVER as long as I live will I be able to do that kind of work. Lots of patience which I have zip! LOL I can't sit still long enough to do hand work.

I bet the person that quilted that has been doing it for years and years! It is beautiful.

If you practice everyday & use a sz 12 needle, the stitch sz will come as well as the spacing apart from ea stitch. I have always been told that 12 stitches to the inch are a goal to shoot for. Looks like this may be 12 to the inch. If ya get that many per inch, they have to be really tiny and close. Makes sense huh? The only problem I have with sz 12 needles is that they bend then break. Guess I have a death grip on it. LOL That sample you posted is gorgeous. Love doing feathers.

I use a "quilting paddle" for handquilting. I love this. It is my favorite tool. I don't think I could handquilt without it. Here is a link

http://www.threadandmore.com/scripts/pr ... oduct=4043

If you have any questions about it, let me know. Laura