Just make sure when you use something to put coned thread in that the thread won't get caught up in moving part on the machine. For the glue, yes you can baste the entire sandwich using washable glue. I hold the glue bottle (full strength) upside down with the tip wide open, moving the bottle back and forth across the batting to make a grid of lines about 3-4" apart. Then I smooth down the top/backing, patting well to make sure of contact. I air dry mine (takes about an hour) but some will iron dry. Then you can flip and do the other side. By spreading the glue onto the batting, you can know that there are no wrinkles when you spread out the fabric. The sandwich will not shift at all and you can fmq wherever on the quilt ...don't have to work from the middle out. The quilt does have to be washed after completion....warm water and detergent. So easy and cheap!