I'm enjoying reading this. As far as dropping the feeds, the day my 301 arrived, I was playing with her and was able to slide the fabric around easily with the feed dogs engaged, so I may try it with them first. My Elna has an adjustable pressure foot and the feeddogs do not drop. It does adjust beautifully to heavy leather or silk organza, but it never allows the fabric any freedom.
At this time, I am not interested in stippling, but meandering. I need to learn my quilting terms. Lots of these tips will work for both. Keep them coming. By nightfall, I may be brave enough to try on the Quilt for Kids quilt that is on the machine right now. (If I get off here and go finish piecing it.)