I love basting spray! In fact, I have just sprayed a table runner so I can quilt it tomorrow. I also use either pins or stitch basting as well just to make sure. The spray gives it that solid extra hold! I used a new can tonight and it seems to hold even better then the last brand I used. This one is Birch brand.
As far as quilting is concerned, I haven't progressed past stitch in the ditch so far! FMQ is on my 'intention to learn' list!