How dumb was that? (Hand quilting)
 

The first time I tried to hand quilt, I thought the fabric was supposed to be tight as a drum head in the hoop/frame (one of the pvc rectangles) A smooth surface worked better for embroidery, didn't it?

It was hard to work the needle - how was I supposed to rock the needle if I couldn't get the fabric to move?

At last I realized that there has to be some "give/looseness" to the fabric so it can be maneuvered a bit. What a difference that made!

~raising hand~ Me too...and I nearly got rid of my hoop, it's one of those big ones on a stand, I forget the brand name of it.

It was your first attempt...so not dumb at all-I don't even use a hoop as I need lots of give when I quilt...I wish I had the hand dexterity to still be able to hand quilt.

I still don't seem to be able to find my mojo for hand quilting. I like hand work, but quilting just doesn't seem to click for me.

Hinterberg?

I'm another "no hoop-er". I just can't get comfortable using a hoop.

My problem is that I can't use a thimble. I need to feel the needle. I get callouses on my fingers. Wish I could use a thimble.

You have to experiment till you find the tension that is right for you, I tought that you could not handquilt without a loom or a hoop till I saw a quilter doing 12 stitches to an inch without a loom of any kind, experimentation and practice make perect as they used to say!

I only do one stitch at a time. I just can't get the hang of the rocking motion. I have hand quilted 6 full size. I figure the best way is the one you will do. There is no right or wrong.:)

At least you are figuring things out as you go along. Good luck.