Hand Quilting

I can't seem to take really small stitches because when I do, then I don't grab the backing in the stitch. What am I doing wrong?

The best thing to do is to be consistent. As long as your stitches are even and the same size, they will become smaller with practice. Also try different between needles. Many like a size 10 or 11, but I have used a 7 and had more control because they don't bend out of shape so quickly.

Thanks for your reply. I guess I'll be looking for a good *quilting* hoop instead of using my inadequate embroidery hoop.

I see that you have a fair amount of "give" in the fabric in your hoop. I think I must have been putting it in too tight and so that pleat-thing is problematic for me.

Is a quilting hoop the same as an embroidery hoop - or is it deeper? I've been using a wooden embroidery hoop, but it sometimes pops off.

You do need a fair amount of give in order to pleat the fabric.
A quilting hoop is NOT the same as an embroidery hoop. The rim of the quilting hoop is much wider and thicker. And the screw or wingnut that holds the hoop together is much bigger. There are also big differences in the quality of quilting hoops. You get what you pay for:) I prefer a good quality wooden hoop. I don't like the plastic "non-slip" hoops. It's impossible to get the right tension on the fabric.

Fabulous but by hand ?

Hi I keep coming back to look at this great video. I'm having difficulty 'balancing' the hoop between my arm and my rib cage, when I do manage to hand quilt the stitches are long. Can you quilt the whol of a quilt with a hoop? Best Wishes

OMG WOW AWSOME!!! lol NOT ^ cuts my eyes out

How do you bury the knot between the layers? I remember that, but so vaguely, that I'm staring at my practice work blankly.

Knot the end of the thread, leaving a tail about 1/4 inch long. Insert the needle into the top fabric and the batting, about 1/2" away from where you want to start stitching. Do not go through to the back. Pull the needle up through the top where you want your first stitch to begin. Pull thread through gently but firmly until you see, feel, or hear the knot pop through the top and into the batting. Then begin your quilting stitch.  Hope that helps!