I put my stabilizer in my hoop. Then I made a template that is bigger than the hoop and with the center cut out to match the embroidery area. Then when I spray the stabilizer it only goes on the stabilizer and off of the hoop itself.
I have found that some of the paper type stabilizers don't get very sticky from basting spray. I spray...wait a few minutes and then spray a second or third time before it gets sticky enough to hold the fabric down.
Another thing that works is double sided sticky wonder under. Put it on the back side of your applique fabric, cut it out, remove the paper and stick it on the hooped fabric. No ironing is needed :wink: