Many good suggestions here on the QB. Hope I am not repeating..... try as many different ways, including materials, as possible. Thinner cotton batting is more manageable than polyester for the learning process. Use an open toe foot for the best view of the area you are working on. After many years of using FMQ, I find myself getting more consistent results with slower, rather than the usually recommended faster, motion of both machine and quilt. Most of all, try to have the widest possible flat area all around your machine. I love my Sew Steady Portable Tables. Have one for each of my two main machines - Bernina 150 and Viking Sapphire. Good luck to you as your skills continue to improve. Many quilts ahead in your future.