It sounds just like when hand quilting. That is all I do at this point. Eddie, the one question I have is when you are using a walking foot do you reverse sew. I thought I read that you can't reverse withthe walking foot. Could you also start your sewing really close tothe edge, where you know you would be sewing your binding over the beginning to make sure that it is doubly locked in?

I don't like my locking stitch. too bumpy! so i just take a few small stitches, usually 1.0 or 1.5 and then change to a longer one and continue.

Hi! New to posting.
Re: "Nests" of threads under fabric when starting to sew, I usually pull up the bobbin thread and hold that and the top thread gently,toward the right and back of the walking foot, (or 1/4" foot) when beginning the first few stitches. Also, you may start with a small scrap of fabric under the presser foot to begin your stitching. Then just cut it off when you've finished your seam. It's similar to "chain stitching" or "chain piecing.
Hope this helps.
Marcia

Here is an excellent blog and video on what to do.

http://freemotionquilting.blogspot.c...g-threads.html