I have never once been successful at pin or thread basting a quilt. In the past I've always reverted to store-bought basting sprays. They work, but...they are a pain. There's overspray everywhere, fumes and chemicals and most of all, expensive.
Here's a recipe for a DIY quilt basting spray that has never failed. Thank you Chatterbox Quilts
for the perfect alternative to aerosol spray basting. It holds the layers together and never gums up the needle.