I don't know how many of you are familiar with Leah Day? She is phenominal quilter who has some books and DVDs on the market. For doing FMQ, she recommends setting up your sewing maching in the (left) corner of the room, so that the quilt "pools" in the corner of your table, rather than going off the edge of the table and thus contributing to what is referred to as "drag". I have found this hint to be very helpful. In fact, her Beginners DVD is filled with great hints for newbie quilters such as myself.