There are no dumb questions.
I ususally use neutral colors for thread such as white or cream or if a dark quilt a black or brown. My hand stitches are not very good so I don't want to focus on them yet.
But make sure you quilt density is what is required by the batting used. I also want a design that is about the same density across the quilt.
I baste from the center out. I will have to look for the method on the bars.