In both hand and machine quilting, thread is used for basting, piecing, quilting, and appliqué. You can use multiple types of thread in a single quilt. Quilting threads come in a wide variety of colors and can be made from a number of different natural or synthetic fibers. To choose thread for your project, consider the thread’s content and color.
Thread Content
The thread you use for a quilting project should match the fiber content of the fabric you’re using. For instance, use cotton thread when sewing cotton fabric. Some hand-quilting threads may be coated in a waxy substance for ease of use; do not use these threads with a sewing machine.
Thread Color
Though the thread color you use depends on your preferences, there are a few rules of thumb for choosing thread color based on how you plan to use the thread:
- Decorative topstitching or quilting thread: Color choice depends entirely on how you want the finished quilt to look.
- Basting thread: Basting stitches are usually made using a brightly colored thread that contrasts with the fabric, so they can be easily found and removed once permanent stitches have been made.
- Piecing thread: Thread used to piece fabric together should be of the same fiber content as the quilt fabric (so the two won’t shrink differently when washed) and neutral in color so it doesn’t interfere with the look of the work.
Make sure to use only colorfast thread, which won’t bleed in the wash or lose color over time.
