I use Elmers Glue to sandwich the layers, be sure it is the washable kind. There are some good how-to tuts on this site. I used to hand baste the layers but found the glue method cut my time by at least half and the results were as good or better.
Welcome to the Board. Love your guilt, the greatest thing new quilters bring is their fresh perspective. Love the creativity in your quilt! Had to laugh about your change in plans, seems to me quilts take on a life of there own and start bossing you around.