i just took a free motion class, and we were taught to take the few stitches and then cut close. the other option is to leave a tail of thread and, with a needle, bring it back through between the layers.
the option i liked the best is to plan to have very few stops and starts. i'm trying to figure out how that can be on a double irish chain that i am planning (with focus panels in the design).
anxious to see what other more experienced members say!