It depends on the actual top if I float or secure it. If the top is very simple with few seams, I will usually secure to a roller. If the top has a lot of piecing I float the top. By floating the top, IF there is any fullness in the blocks, floating the top allows me to work it out. I RARELY baste the sides mostly because of working out fullness. I do stitch in the ditch around the blocks on most all quilts.