I have done quite a bit of redwork ( bluework too) and the thread I use is Premium Sulky 12 weight. I comes in many colors, but I use the #713 1147 red or the 713 1293 Blue. It is a 100% long staple cotton thread that is machine washable or dry cleanable. You can use it for hand or machine sewing. This is what the teacher of redwork that I know uses and tells her students to use. It comes in 330yard spools and lasts forever ( What I mean is a long, long time ) .