For those doing hand-quilting, either with a hoop or small frame, you might
ask a long arm (or mid-arm) machine quilter to do your basting. She can
load your large quilt on her machine, and use a long, running basting stitch in both directions about 2-4 inches apart. (I use simple Meander stitch for this). This method keeps your top/batting/backing taut. Then you can easily start hand quilting in center of your large project, and work
to all edges, easily removing basting stitches as you go.

Get yourself a Micro Stitch tacking gun! It came out as an "as seen on TV" item (I never saw it on TV) and was recommended to me at my favorite fabric store which carried it. The "other" brand had longer tacks and a fat needle. This thinner needle doesn't leave holes in the fabric and is very easy to use! Hard to see the little tacks to remove them but running your fingers over the quilt does a good job. Or remove them as you see them while qt'ing.

A great tool for my arthritic finger! No hundreds of safety pins for me!

I use large safety pins. On smaller projects, I use spray on adhesive.

I found this tip on basting elsewhere. I haven't tried it yet.

"I've just learned this and wanted to share. I think it is my favorite tip ever. When basting your quilt, leave thread attached to spool after threading your needle, thus eliminating all that cutting and threading. Can't wait to try it myself. - Peggy in Illinois"

No doubt you'll need to cut the thread from the spool periodically to keep from having to drag so much through the basted area. Still--it would be quicker than cutting a lenght before basting, I'd think.

I like doing Susan Schambert's way of basting also. Seems to hold better. I was having trouble with pins and puckers.

that is what I do too. Works really well

i never baste or pin anymore i use spray (505) to keep my quilt together while quilting on it

Love the stuff

I use the basting spray. Penny

Hi Woody, In your picture-is that a real parrot? I am a parrot lover./ Lissa

hi Woody, In your picture, is that a real parrot? I am a parrot lover./ Lissa