Hi Sounds like you are off to a good start. The only thing I can say is practice and not a big piece of fabric (12 x 12) The machine I learned to quilt on does not have the regulator or did I use any of the methods for a slick surface. (Didn't know these hints) You need to drop your feed dogs so you can slide smooth and get an even stitch on both sides of your fabric. I learned to practice by drawing what I want to stitch - so I keep a cheap sketch pad with when I watch my favorite tv show or waiting for kids/dr. Just doodle. It works for me. I can't tell you how important it is to practice and remember Rome was not built in a day. Happy quilting.