I see a small pucker every once in a while, but since I started spray basting, they are few and far between. I starch the backing then smooth out on my to work tables. I hold that taut to the edges w/ black binder clips. Then, I smooth out the batting, then the top. When all is adjusted smooth and flat, I roll the top and batting (as one) from the top or bottom towards the center. I spray a small strip, unroll, smooth, and so forth. I repeat the same for the layer between the top and the batting. The adhesive holds all together quite snugly which helps me move the quilt as one piece under the needle while I'm quilting (on a DSM). Works for me until I can save my pennies for a LA!!