No, not a dumb question at all. I use a medium, tear-away.. I just cut a pc of stabilizer that is about the size of what I'm working on, and no, don't baste or spray adhesive on it. I just finished a wall-hanging (that I'd started for Valentine's Day) and I actually did the applique stitching thru all 3 layers, then did some swirly doodads for quilting on the rest of it. Came out just fine. I have also done applique with just the top & batting, then when thru, put the backing on and quilt - still using the stabilizer. Hope this helps.