The batting and backing you are using does make a difference. It is much easier to avoid puckers if you are using Warm and White or Warm and Natural than a polyester batting. Something with a lot of cotton in it just automatically stays in place better. Polycotton backings also like to pucker. When I start, I like to run one line of stitching right down the middle both vertically and horiontally to anchor everything. It also allows you to quilt in sections. This has helped me.