I also have a Tin Lizzie 18LS and I don't baste I put some pins across the top to hold it until I roll I only put pins on the side If the top won't lie flat I have never had a problem with any puckers I use the clamps on the sides to hold the backing straight I also belong to the yahoo group Tin Lizzie and Marge on the group is a lot of help she knows a lot about the machine so give them a try and good luck I really love my machine now I'm sure you will too It is a learning curve takes a little time