I find the batting to be my worst enemy. If you are using a thick batting, try a small piece and use the thinnest cotton batting available. I love quilters dream batting. I use #10 between needles and a homemade rack. I agree with NJ Quilter. Just keep trying one thing at a time till you find your niche. If you don't like pin basting talk to a longarmer about basting for you. Makes a large project so much easier to handle and worth the fee for most people.