schoolteacher

I am making a red/white/blue patriotic quilt and want to hand quilt it. I am thinking of quilting it with a thicker thread and in bigger stitches. I want the thread to really stand out and this would make it even more "rustic" looking. What kind of thread should I be using? One strand or two? I've seen this type of hand quilting before but don't know what it is called. Please advise.

HillCountryGal

Guess you could experiment with different threads. I've used 2 strands of embroidery thread before. Please share a photo of your finished quilt.

collector49

I believe it's called "big stitch" or "utility" quilting. You use #8 perle cotton.

Tartan

I would get the ball of Perle cotton rather then embroidery floss. It eliminates having to go back and fix where one strand of the floss doesn't get pulled properly and has a thread bump. You can get the little round #8 perle cotton balls of thread but make sure to get the same colour number if you buy several. Perle cotton also comes in bigger balls but not a lot of quilt stores carry it.

schoolteacher

Thanks everyone. Just got done watching some youtube videos and you all were exactly right. Big stitch/pearl cotton and #8 needles. One gal had an interesting way of ending the line of stitching. You all rock!!!

Kitsie

Oh! Can you rmember the one with the "interesting way of ending"? Would like to see what she does!

ManiacQuilter2

Yes, be sure to check dye lots so that all the thread will match. Big stitch goes a lot quicker.

luvstoquilt

I agree with Collector 49.....Perle cotton! #8

tessagin

Love the look of "big stitch" quilting. especially on burlap and muslin.

schoolteacher

Found it again. Youtube Big stitch lesson 5: the ending knot Jo Glover
It's new to me at least. I had been taught to wind the thread around the needle and then put the needle back into fabric. Hope this helps.