Once I have a quilt loaded onto the frame to longarm, I baste across the top to make sure it is straight and secure. I then baste down the sides to secure and keep it straight, going as far down to the bar as I can go.
I then quilt it left to right once I figure out the size of the pattern I am using and how it will all fit where I want it (when using the computer designs and system).
When doing free motion only quilting I still start at the left side and work to the right side. Top to bottom, rolling and basting the sides as I go.
I will either do STD on the thinner borders or a complete design if the borders are wide enough.
I generally let my quilt batting and quilt top 'float' while I quilt it until I get to the very end. Then pin to secure in place while I quilt the final border.
Phyllis
QuiltingGrannie
Quilter's Pantry