Dina.....I loved your hubbies response! ckcowl....you brought up some very great questions! Astramorgaine...I am so glad that I am not a perfectionist, I end up with puckers more often than not. I have tried pinning, thread basting and spraying. The only method that I have ended up with the least amount of puckers is when I use Elmers Washable School Glue to baste. It is the method that I started using about a year ago and my quilting just continues to improve.
I hope that you find the solution you are looking for! Have fun and try not to get to frustrated, remember that quilting in all stages should bring us happiness and joy.