A wonderful idea.
peace

I usually hand baste or pin the layers together, on my basting surface (dining room table), I use a table protector pad that I got at the thrift store. It is larger than my table, and it works well, protecting the table from the needle or the pins. I have used the large darning curved needle that came in my misc. needle pack from years ago. Never sewed a turkey shut before.

Another tip ... I hand baste with water soluble thread so I don't have to remove the basting stitches - just wash the quilt.

I looked for curved needles to make this job simpler, but the only ones I could find had pretty thick shafts, thicker than I wanted - they'll punch holes in my quilt.

What curved needle are you using?

Forgive me, but I don't understand how you can slip a mat under your needle while you are basting. When I baste, my backing is anchored to my table with clamps. It would be impossible for me to get anything underneath. Help me understand. I just can't get a visual on it. I'll have to try the curved needle. I also like the water soluable thread. Is it sturdy enough survive a lot of handling on a large quilt? I've heard about pinning then stitching in the ditch by machine with water soluable thread. I haven't tried it, but it sounded interesting.

Traditional Quilter

Yes ... the water soluble thread is sturdy enough ... as long as it is kept dry. I've even caught my hopping foot on a thread it and doesn't break.