Whatever else you do as you begin quilting on your DSM, PLEASE buy a pair of Machingers gloves, and wear them whenever you're quilting (you'll have to take them off occasionally for a few tasks but they slip right back on easily). They do a great job of creating enough friction so your fingers don't lose their grip on your project, whether it's practice sandwiches or your actual quilt. Yet they're lightweight--after you've used them a few times you won't even notice they're there. PLEASE!
Dana