Thank you all SO much for the excellent suggestions and encouragement !
I decided to give it another try, incorporating the ideas I could - and voila ! success !!!
Two things made a huge difference - I was sewing 1/4 inch seams but I reduced them down to a very scant 1/4 inch.
Also starch - a lifesaver ! I "starched the heck" out of the fabrics and it helped tremendously.
I am going to try to post a pic of my before and after - thank you all again, i will definately be looking for your advice again !