thread basting and smooth-not tight really are the keys to successful hand quilting- even when hooped-the fabric is not held (tight) only smooth- generally you need some give in the hoop to successfully hand quilt- if you have been unhappy with thread basting and pin basting perhaps you could try the 'spray basting' method- still do not stretch your fabric- simply smooth it - no wrinkles- when spray basting some people still either pin or thread baste around the edges to keep everything from shifting. there are some great tutorials on hand quilting- starting with preparations- check out a few of those to find a technique that suits you.