I agree with many of the comments from others, but espeically to practice drawing on paper the design you're planning to use. Draw it over and over and over the same size you are planning on sewing, until it becomes easy and natural. Then when you start machine quilting make sure to keep the speed up on your foot control and move the fabric slowly. Concentrate but keep your shoulders relaxed and take breaks every 20 min. or so. I don't wear gloves, but have found it easiest to hold the fabric in a roll or bunch in order to keep the fabric taunt.