Some randomness is good, but I agree that right now it seems just too random.

I have similar stories of getting quality over 400 plus multiple touch ups, and still just being lucky to get a +1 every now and then.

On the other hand, I've gotten HQ's when quality was under 16, or even when using Hasty Hand.

I'm hoping for an adjustment where your final Quality score will have more impact on whether or not you can end up with an HQ item.