Hello Pat. I'm from New York City and one of favorite places is New Jersey Shore. You have to check it out if you're ever in these parts.
To not get puckers, I use my dinning table. I use the big binder clips to clip down the backing fabric, then smooth out the batting and place that on top. I also use the clips to hold that down. Lastly I place the quilt top on and clip that as well. Many people use spray but I have sinus problems. I like to hand baste through all the layers starting in the center and working my way out. The clips really holds everything nice and straight. Go to www.staples.com and type in the search large binder clips.
so you can see what I'm writing about.
Hope this helps.