for those of you who handquilt, how do you decide what color thread to use

When I handquilted (10+ years ago), I always used invisible thread.

it depends on the color of the quilt/background etc. and how good i hand quilt. Contrating colors will sho stitches Same color as background or piecing do not show as much.
Depends on how much you want your stitches to show.
same color blends, contrasting color shows up.

I usually use the background color of the top because I haven't done anything fancy.

I pick a color depending on how much I want the quilting to stand out. If I want it to blend, I'll pick a color that's just a bit darker than the background. If I really want the quilting to stand out, I pick a color that contrasts.

Janet

thanks for the quick replys, as I am new at handquilting, I think I will probably use a color that maybe doesn't show all my flaws so easily

by the color of the quilt.
makes no difference to me if it's hand or machine quilting i choose a thread that goes with the quilt. if there are lots of colors- or i want the thread to really show up in the quilting i will go with a nice verigated

A varigated in the colors/shades of the backgorund fabric is a option.

It seems to me that if one is going to all the time and trouble to hand quilt, the stitches should show as part of the total overall design. I prefer to use a contrasting color thread. One's stitches do not need to be perfect, just as regular as possible on a washed quilt. Washing hides a multitude of errors and creates that traditional look so many enjoy.

Jan in VA