I like the Dritz spray. Usually buy a lot when it is on sale at JoAnns.

Can I borrow your husband? I have used the basting gun as well as aqua net. I manipulate the quilt way too much to use the spray on a big quilt. The gun leaves holes that will work out easily. I guess my favorite way is the old fashioned basting thread. Very time consuming though.

safety pins ,then tack with cheapest cotton same method / tacking pattern as sharon Schamber ---------this was the best tip I recd from this board ,but did use safety pins and same tacking before.

I prefer to baste with thread. I just use whatever odd thread I have since I will take it out anyway. I find I can get the layers smoother easier than with pins.