I actually like the lighter version myself and it would be alot easier to do, but some like it heavier. That's why I want to offer more than 1 option for the quilt. On the other hand this quilt done in the 30's fabrics reminds me of an antique quilt therefore may warrant heirloom style quilting.
The black lines make it look heavier than it would be. I will be using an off white thread and if she chooses the feathers I would use a very light weight thread.
I agree that the quilting should not over power the quilt top, but the back if a different story. That's where we get to show our stuff.