Jannie

I layer my quilts on the living room carpet all the time. First lay the back down with wrong side up and using T-pins pin it to the carpet. (I have hardwood floors under the carpet so I angle my pins so I don't hit the floor.) I put 1 pin in the top & then go to the bottom & put 1 pin in. If there is a seam or a stripe I try to use that to keep it square. Now pin the rest of the top & then the bottom. The sides will be pinned next My T-pins are 6 to 8 inches a part making sure a pin is in each corner. Lay the batting on top of the backing. Now lay the top with right side up on the batting and pin it thru all 3 layers just like you did the back. Do not remove the pins from the back until the top is pinned completely. Using your safety pins, pin all layers together for quilting. Pins should be about 4 to 6 inches (a fist width) a part. I tend to over pin. Now you can remove the T-pins and close the safety pins. Using a crochet hook or spoon is helpful in closing the pins. You can now go to your machine and start quilting or put it in a hoop and hand quilt. I love the poly battings. I think it makes it more cuddly and not so heavy. BTW, I think your quilt is adorable and for a 1st you did a great job. Also a walking foot is a great asset.