i make these all the time and they are usually a big hit with new moms! babies seem to love the texture of the chenille as they grab it with their tiny hands. i would take out the stitching on the edges. most definatley a walking foot is a big advantage. you can smooth it out as you go. after you have sewn all the channels use your slash cutter on the top 3 layers (remember the layer that acts as the backing must be facing in the opposite direction, just like a regular quilt. when all the channels are slashed you can square up the blanket. then apply the binding and throw it in the washer and dryer. the chenille will form and it is so much nicer than any chenille fabric you could buy already made---much more dense. everyone always ask how i found such beautiful chenille and when i tell them i made it myself they look at me like i came from another planet. good luck on your project