I have two, the older, larger one, that I tend to just use for household mending projects now, and the newer, micro version that I use for quilts now as the tacks are both short and fine, as is the needle. I do use it with a fairly thick rug behind it and don't have any problems with that. I have the grid, but find it a nuisance having to move it behind the quilt. I have never used basting spray, as I haven't ever seen it for sale here in Ireland. :(