Originally Posted by Jan in VA
I pin just before the join at each intersection; I also use a stilletto to support/guide/direct my fabric under the needle, especially when the seam is pressed the 'wrong' direction for that intersection.
On particularly troublesome pieces -- some fabric just plain has a stretchy mind of its own -- I might make 4-5 stitches exactly over the joins and then go back and sew the whole piece.
Jan in VA
I use a stilletto also. You are able to hold the fabric in place until just before the needle goes into the fabric. I think that the idea to pin sooner is a great idea because even with a walking foot, the top of my fabric does "scootch" a little no matter what. Like and will use all of this tricks of the trade.