don't stitch around the outside before quilting - it has to be able to (move) outward as you go. you start in the middle and work outward toward a side, top, bottom other side-
chances are the edges will not be even when you finish- we generally we square up the quilt before binding.-that is when you would stitch around the edges.

if your top has bias edges- or alot of seams along the edges you may want to stay stitch the top- but do not stitch it to the batting/backing-only stay stitch the top itself to keep edge seams from coming apart or stretching.

Thank you all for your advice-- I'm always so grateful to this board when I have a question-- the response is so fast!!

I hate to sound like a sheep, but I do as the others and spray baste and pin, starting in the center and working my way around. (baahhh)