each time you advance take the time to smooth everything, making sure the backing is smooth & taut (look underneath & make sure- then make sure your batting is smooth- then the top- fasten your clamps, check again to make sure you do not have any 'puffy' areas- then start at the 'bottom' of your previous stitching so any fullness will move 'down' toward open areas. (like starting in the center & working your way out to the edges when quilting by hand, or on domestic machine) you don't mention what kind of batting you are using- but the *loftier* the batting the more "puffiness issues' you will have. stop once in a while & check things out- I keep a 12" mirror tile on my quilting table, I can stop stitching & go look under the whole thing with my mirror. it is easier to catch an error early & take it out than to try to fix anything after the whole quilt is done. and remember- there is a learning curve & it all takes Practice, Practice, Practice. there are many factors that you will learn as you go along. batting plays a big part, so does quilting design, density of quilting, the quilt top- design/style/technique/workmanship. good luck & keep practicing- it will get better.
