I too had a really hard time with the pool noodles, then I saw this video other day here on the forum, and think it may solve my problem. I was too dense to realize that I needed to pin the fabric to the noodle to get it tight. I haven't tried it yet but I have 3 noodles and also have 2 pieces of 3/4" PVC pipe left over from a chicken project. The PVC fits exactly into the holes in the pool noodles and makes them much sturdier. ie: no bending. The 10ft long piece of PVC at my local Lowes was about 3.00! I think even cheaper than wooden dowels.
Anyway, here is the link to the discussion here on the forum and the link to the youtube video is in message #20 on how to baste the easy way. In the video she uses pipe insulation and PVC. I just plan to use what I already have. Hope this helps
https://www.quiltingboard.com/main-f1/need-ingenious-idea-sandwich-quilt-t296911.html