I am mostly self-taught. For years I struggled with little pleats at the back and was amazed at the difference when I finally splurged for a walking foot. It is worth every penny! Free motion quilting is my favorite way to quilt. It takes some practice and I always do a sample to test the tension. I did take a class once in FMQ and it helped me get started. I did a lot of practicing before I was willing to do it on a "real" quilt. Matching threads to the fabrics helps make the mistakes less noticeable. I don't mind using contrasting thread now. Having a level work surface works best with larger quilts. I love my Machingers gloves. I used to use the Supreme Slider, but stopped once I quilted it to the back of a quilt. LOL