I just finished stippling my first quilt. I had a death grip on the quilt and my shoulders and neck hurt for two days. I kept saying maybe this would work better if I waxed the sewing machine bed. Then I saw the suggestion to use Silicone Spray on the bed. I think that will help a lot with the drag and pull you feel. Also pull the quilt UP onto your lap so you won't feel the weight that causes those "bird beaks" I'm so famous for.