When quilting in the hoop, I only put either the backing or top fabric in the hoop, and place the batting and the 'second' fabric on top or under. I do use a few pins to hold in place but no stabilizer.
My Brothers have never given me problems with thread, I use all sorts.
If using an embroidery design, I would do that first, with batting in the hoop, then put the backing underneath before the quilting is done,
Last edited by Gay; 01-28-2018 at 07:02 PM.