I echo all the responses that suggest keeping the quilt top LOOSE within the frame. I was told my quilt in the frame should look like a cat had just taken a nap in the middle of it. It has to be somewhat loose to enable you to achieve the rocking motion. I remember being terribly frustrated with hand quilting until I found some good instructions, plopped myself down on the couch and told myself I wouldn't get up until I'd mastered it. Now, years later, I know my stitches are tiny, but my bug-a-boo is keeping the stitches even. Grrr.