Thanks for all advice! I am now sewing without the stabilizer and it looks just fine

Thought I would share something I learnt when doing the second border. (I know, I'm way behind after moving). I reread the instructions for sewing the applique pieces and noted that your machine needle should be located all the way to the right, I somehow overlooked this when sewing my first border and needed to use a stabilizer even though I had starched a few times. Any way, I had no problem with my needle moved all the way to the right this time. It was one of those 'light bulb' moments. Wish I had noted this advice the first time around.

If the background fabric is heavily starched ( as directed) there is no need for extra stabilizer.

I don't believe the instructions call for using a stabilizer when doing the borders. When I was at my quilt shop purchasing a foot for my machine I was told you should "always" use a stabilizer. It sure makes for a lot more work having to go back and remove all the stabilizer. What is everyone else doing????