I have spray basted and hand quilted with a large hoop in my lap--my favorite method. I had no problems with sandwich coming apart, nor needling,,,I do prefer using a small, short needle tho. I usually toss my quilt sandwich on a bed, take the hoop off and move to another spot, and I do start in the center. My 2 cats want to get 'into the act' now, so I do FMQ more often. Pin your sandwich in a few places if you are concerned .