I just did a search on "how to attach a quilt to a hand quilting frame" Looks like there are several methods. Wow, several methods. I saw some where the quilt layers are attached one by one to the frame just using tacks, then I saw methods were a leader made of canvas or muslin or some other sturdy material was attached to the rollers using tacks or staples, and I saw some made of PVC rollers with PVC clamps used to attach the quilt. On these, the quilt was moved and then the clamps put back on. I have a long arm machine. I usually just pin my backing to the leaders placing long pins head to toe. Yep it takes a while but I have gotten used to it and it is just easy to do. Using zippers, you have to sew them on and take them off and that takes time too.