I use Dritz spray basting and never have to start in the middle....the trick is to have the backing tight and straight before you start sewing....once it is spray basted in place, it will not move, then you can sew wherever you want.....once I discovered spray basting, I will never pin again.....feed dogs down, darning/quilting foot (no walking foot unless doing straight line sewing) presser foot down, pedal to the metal and go!