Hi Martha,I am new at FMQ,but I have taken a few classes. You need to start in the center and work you way out. I usually start on the bottom right side then move to top left and so on in case there is some movement in the quilt it will keep it in the center. Always practice on a piece before you start your quilt. I use two different machines and always have to adjust the settings,depending on the type of thread,batting,and fabric. I really enjoy FMQ,it took me awhile to start it,should have started years ago.