It took a while for me to quilt my own creations...I was in the same position as you: loved making the tops, was frustrated by sandwiching and quilting, didn't have the money to send them out...the basting spray plus safety pins every 12" is the way to go. Also, the fusible batting is a great product. Start with a wall hanging and move up. I do twin size quite easily now but only because I was forced outside my comfort zone with my first twin project (I was TEACHING a beginner's course - taking over for a last minute cancellation of another teacher - and she had given the option of lap to twin size, so I had to be able to quilt a twin size!) It can be done but with your husband being sick, don't put added pressure on yourself to do something you don't enjoy. Do what helps you cope. I find the process of creating an escape from everyday pressures...run with that.