I understand your frustration. I've tried a few techniques over the years.
The last table runner I did I basted it on the ironing board. Photos can be seen here:
http://www.plentifulpennies.com/sear...table%20runner
I pinned the outside edge of the backing to the ironing board (with pins not safety pins). Then added the batting. I then pinned the top to the backing - again only the outside edge.
I hand basted from one edge of the ironing board to the other (from narrow end to narrow end). Only removing pins as required. Gosh I hope that makes sense...
Another technique I used once was a bed mattress. I took it off the bed and propped it up again the wall. Then I pinned the backing onto the mattress (same as before - just the outside edge, and used regular pins). Having it hang vertically made it easier to ensure there was no bunching. Once again I hand basted it (my preference - but you could also pin with safety pins at 3 inch intervals).
This weekend I tried Sharon Shambler's method. No taping required
http://www.plentifulpennies.com/2010/07/basting.html I'm now a convert :) Probably over the top for a table runner - but great for wall, lap, or bed quilts.