I have to tell you...you will get as many different answers on thread and needle size as you will if you ask what kind of machine everyone sews on! My suggestion...try out a few..on a practice piece. mark what type of thread you used where..and mark what type of batt/needle was used. I suggest going to superior threads website. They have a video on tension and Bob talks alot about why we should be able to use any thread we like. All that said...I piece with masterpiece (its thin..I like it..and it comes on a HUGE cone, so I don't have to change much. I piece almost everything quilty in light grey.) I quilt on a long arm and so far , I like King Tut and Permacore the best..but I have about 3 diff kinds to try in the near future. I have a blog friend who quilts with serger thread...for pay..and LOVES it. Go figure!