Oh wow! Thank you guys for all of your help. I am going to order that video. My topknots aren't horrendous but definitely need some improvement.
The one thing I have noticed is that none of these threads no one mentions taking up and banding the triangle of hair from the base of the skull. A while back, I had the privilege of being able to see one of Molly's finished topknots that she did on Fury and noticed that the back was always pulled up too.
I did hear about the KY Jelly to smooth out the stray hairs but every time I try to use it, it makes the hair greasy and separate.
I guess the moral of the story is practice, practice, practice. Something that is made even more difficult then your pup is all oiled up and wrapped!