Seems like you are just putting off the sandwiching and actual quilting part. That truly is the hardest part about quilting, so that is understandable. Take the bull by the horns, and show those tops who is the boss. Or maybe if you can afford it, send them out to be finished. My philosophy is this. A top alone is not going to keep anyone warm, or give a quilty hug to someone. Nothing better than a hand made quilt to cuddle up to.