What size needle and what kind of thread do you use when
making a quilt? I have a Singer Quatum 9960.

It usually depends on the type of batting you use. I most often use a 90/14 topstitch or quilting needle and 40-weight cotton thread, but not always. There's great advice on www.superiorthreads.com

thanks for the link

For hand needles, the larger the number on the needle, the thinner the needle....For hand quilting, I use a number 9 or 10 between.

Sewing machine needles are different. The larger the number, the thicker the needle. And sewing machine needles have 2 numbers. 70/10 is a thin needle for delicate work. 90/14 is thicker and works well for denim, etc. The standard size is 80/12.

Thread numbers get larger the thinner the thread. Standard sewing thread is #50. Quilting thread is a little thicker (and I always try to get the waxed kind for strength) #40. When I machine quilt I make sure that the top thread and bobbin thread are the same. If they aren't most machines will revolt!! .... don't forget to check the tension when changing thread.

Hope this helps.

Hello, don't want to insult your intelligence but never use hand quilting thread in your machine. Lisa

Thank you very much for that information. I was practicing free motion quilting yesterday and I kept having problems with my top thread showing through to the bottom. I did make some adjustments to top and bottom tension. I helped some. I am not sure if it had anything to do with the speed I was moving my material, or type batting, or needle size.

Unless, of course the thread is clearly marked "suitable for hand or machine quilting". If it is marked this way you can safely use it in your machine. A good example is Valdani hand quilting thread. You can use it in your machine because it is not coated.

Not to worry, no insult taken...... I don't use hand quilting thread in my machine but I have purchased heavier thread that works just fine. I wouldn't ever use differnt sized threads in my featherweight or treadle machine but my Viking tolerates it fine..... I haven't had any problems. I just made cushions for some antique wicker chairs and used the heavier thread. They came out lovely.

I get the quilting needles for my machine when putting the blocks together and I use Aurofil; it's a great thread and being only 2 ply it helps keep my blocks the size they need to be plus it's all cotten and with this one it has very little lint to build up in your machine.

Thank you for that information. I just need someone in my area who can show me those kind of things. I bought a Accuquilt Go for cutting my squares, triagles, strips etc. I know how to sew them together but it is knowing what the right fabric, thread, needle, batting etc. to use that is confusing me.