I couldn't get my quilt quilted on the sewing machine. One of my quilting friends said that was because I used polyester batting. I had basted and pinned, etc. but the back bunched up like crazy. I ended up ripping all that out and hand quilting it. I am sure the stitches are not as even as desired and not every stitch is in the ditch but I am almost finished. I am wondering, now, if I should add some extra stitches between the SID even though I used 2 1/2" strips for the most part.
To me, how to do the quilting is a hard decision to make. I don't have any advice - just to share my experience with my first quilt.
Your quilt is nice and bright. I am sure your son will love it.