I started using the Sharon Schamber basting method when doing quilts on my home machine and it has made a big difference. You don't have to do it with thread, you can do the same method with pins if you are going to quilt it right away.





I don't roll my quilts into a log when I'm quilting as I find it difficult to maneuver a log through the machine. I get the area I'm quilt really flat and go from there. Everyone develops their own technique that works best with their sewing area.

If you can find a local shop that lets you rent out their longarm that might be a better option when doing your next big quilt.