thanks for all the help

Pre cutting and pinning. Measure middle and use that.

I do not cut my border lengths to fit exactly. I cut them a few inches longer then just lay the border on the edge of the quilt and sew it on. No pulling or pushing. Never have had a wavy border.

Like Kitsie I don't cut my borders to fit exactly. Instead I sew with the border on top of the quilt and like to stretch it a tad - but not stretch the quilt - and do the same with the first round of stitching when putting the binding on. Have never had a border that waved. To each his/her own, I guess.

One little trick, once measured and cut to size, let the machine do the work, do not let your hands get above the needle. That might help??