First,don't feel that you have to do all the fancy patterns that long-arms do. they have so many advantages over a home sewing machine. if you have a serpentine stitch, it is wonderful to just run along & straddle the seam line. especially good for kids quilts. serpentine stitch curves back and forth but stitches all the way, not like a zigzag.
maybe there is another name for it ?? pins still seem to be the best home method. I tried iron-on batting-ONCE.
SMITTY