Aussiequilter, and others, thanks for being so supportive. I expected it to require practice, but I can't even imagine getting to a point that I'd be able to start quilting my waiting tops. It helps to know I'm not alone, and I'll be using the tips here, except the ones that involve <ahem> chemical mood enhancers. I can see how FMQ would drive one to that, though. I'd just give up, but if so many others can do it, it must be possible.