I noticed in post #18 you mentioned 'overlock thread'. You should never use overlock thread to quilt with because it has very low tensile strength and will break easily. Its purpose is to be used in a serger and you are inviting problems when you use it in a sewing machine. There is a reason that it costs much less than spooled threads of various brands. The information presented by Dr. Bob of Superior Threads is very well done and very informative for all experience levels of sewers. I'm not sure which quilting aids are beneficial because we all have different ways of holding things, etc. I used to use the plastic washers, the slider, machine gloves, etc. However, after lots of practice I do not use any of them and am pleased with my FMQ. It is now my favorite part of the quilting process.