Every stitcher strives for smooth and even stitches.  If this is something you struggle with, here are some tips that will help. 

Tip 1 - Stitch in good lighting.  If you are straining to see, you will be more likely to tug too hard on your thread, or not notice when a stitch is a little loose.  

Tip 2 - What's the right amount of tension?   The Elizabeth Bradley tapestry wool used in our needlepoint kits has some elasticity to it - it "gives" a little.  Pull your needle through until you feel the resistance of the yarn and the stitching is nesting in place.  You want it to be snug but not tight!  You will get a feel for this as you stitch more - practice makes perfect!  

Tip 3 - Let your needle dangle and unwind every once in awhile especially if you feel that your thread is twisting whilst stitching.  Wool that is over-wound doesn't sit flat on the canvas.  

Tip 4 - If you are having trouble filling in small areas which are surrounded by other stitches, you can use the pull and poke method - push the needle down through the canvas and then bring your dominant hand to the underside of the canvas to pull the needle through and guide it back to the front.  Take your time with these "filling in" areas and make sure each stitch is nested properly before moving to the next one.