I use a hoop and start in the middle and work my way out. I would suggest instead of using pins, baste your
quilt sandwich together. I have done it both ways, and
I've settled on the basting. The pins always got in my way,
and I had to move them or my thread caught on them.
Basting for me has worked out better, and the back does
not get all messed up, especially since I use a hoop.