I don't prewash my fabric or batting as the crinkles from shrinkage are very good at hiding wrinkles. 

My bear is in a similar state to Ploshkin’s when it come to fur which is why he is called Fred.

Google suggests that this might be the same machine as a XL-100. The manual for this is available free on the singer.com website so it might be worth taking a look and seeing if it is the same.
https://www.singer.com/sites/default/files/product_manual/1259_xl-100.pdf

I'm getting the impression that you would be happier leaving this quilt small and passing it on to others who will appreciate it. You talk about "not being inspired by this quilt" so I don't know if there is much point you investing much more time and money (for fabric and batting) on it and for you to keep it.

I would keep it small, applique the flowers as planned and then find it a new and appreciative home so you can move on to your next project.

The dreary Bank Holiday weather has meant no gardening but at least I’ve managed to finish my Project Linus quilt. Debating now whether to start a second...

Hello and welcome to TSP.

There's a feature on the Sewing Directory about specialist pattern printers which might be useful for you.

Is there a long bobbin in the bullet shaped shuttle case for the 28k? If it is missing, Helen Howes has replacements but it would stop you playing with your new toy trying out the machine as soon as you got it home.

Keeping things practical (no letting the heart rule the head), the 128 model has a screw dial to adjust the stitch length which means there is no numerical setting for reference and there is no reverse option.

Depending on the age of the 99, this might have a lever for the stitch length which makes it easier to see what has been set and some later models have a reverse option as well.

When you are checking for bits and pieces, it might be worth while lifting the machine head as sometime bits are put under the machine itself.