I am fairly new to quilting too. I have found this board invaluable as has other web sources and craftsy classes. I love Sharon Schamber's youtube video on basting with boards. No puckering on back if you follow that. There also was a great tutorial here on that. Then I would do SID. I have found the rubbery shelf liner with holes to be most helpful. I cut two approx. 4x6" pieces that I use on both sides of the presser foot. Gently pull the fabric to the sides as you stitch and stitch on the lower side (side that seam was not pressed to). When you go to move the shelf liner, stop stitching and move both at the same time. Learned those hints here. Good luck. I am also learning to FMQ and I do see myself improving. Not ready to do a quilt yet but soon.