Thanks GGal ... I'll try the topstitch needle another time. At least you can use your universal and quilting needles for your piecing. I had used a 12Q and switched to a 14Q. Last night when doing the borders, with the same thread, different colour, all stitched fine using the AccuFeed, so it's definitely something with the FMQing ..... and of course that's so many variables!
JenniKy ... I forgot to say thanks about the TNT ... I love neat things like that to help trick my brain into remembering! I take it that's a book you referenced? ... sounds like a great help to have by your side! Could you please photo it, and show here, along with the details we'd need to locate it.
I've got the stippled background done ... from the earlier advice, I eased off on the tension some and all seemed to stitch OK, but still shred/broke, but I got much further in between. I've now started the outside borders, so the finish is in site.