vjengels

I use what ever color thread I think would look good, if I want the quilting pattern to show, I use something stands out; on a sampler I did WAAAAYYYY back I wanted the stiches to show , so I used green , not sure if you can see the stiching w/this photo....if I want the fabric to be the focus I usually use white or off white, like the pink baby quilt.
As far a s basting goes.... I used to start at the middle & work out; now I use a technique I saw on You tube, by Char .... ( starts with a C, I think)someone; search for hand basting videos you'll bump into it. she uses rails, you start from the end, and work your way across the quilt, sitting down, comfortable... not on your knees. Good luck