If you let the Elmer's dry completely, it dries "crispy", so it won't gum anything up at all. Just make sure it's dry and you're good to go! I looove basting with Elmer's and can't imagine going back to pins!
I use a folding table to baste on, I start with the backing and glue it in sections then let it sit and dry a few hours (or hurry it with the iron), then flip it over and do the top. Then let it all dry overnight. Next day I can quilt fearlessly - no tucks, no pin-stabs, no damp glue...no worries!
I drizzle my glue on from a height so it's in a thin line. I usually just draw random loops and squiggles. Then I take a wide house-painting brush, get it a little damp, and brush over the glue to flatten it out and spread out any gobs. Works great, goes fast, and easy to clean up afterwards.