I use a large piece of heavy vinyl instead of a Supreme Slider and do use gloves. The cabinet extension, the sewing machine next to it and the ironing board at an angle in my left help with the weight. My machine is vintage and not very fussy. She quilts with whatever I put in her for thread and whatever thickness of fabric. I think my concern is getting any puckers on the back because the flannel just doesn't seem like I can pull it smooth and tape it to a table to sandwich the quilt. Do you starch flannel backing like you do cotton ones?