You have all made my pistons start firing...brain pistons that is---I have been practicing FMQ off and on for a while but now have 2 tops done and need to get the FMQ mojo going. After reading your different approaches to the free slide problem I ran into my pantry and grabbed a piece of Press'n Seal. It has a sticky side which stuck beautifully to the machine and I just cut a hole for the needle (about 1/2" square). My practice sandwich does seem to slide much better! Hopefully it isn't just a fluke. I do have a question about gloves. I bought a pair of Fons & Porter which are very restrictive and am looking at the Machinegers but has anyone tried "Betty Bands". I have seen them on line and wondered how they work?