I've made quite a few double knit quilts. You'll be happier if you do not mix with cotton fabrics or thinner polyester knits as the thinner knits stretch a lot more. I use a light batt or a flannel sheet for batting so you don't feel the seams and then a sheet for the backing. I always tie them. I don't worry about using special needles or thread, just the usual kinds and never had a problem. The double knits are very forgiving and you can fudge a little if you need to in order to make the blocks fit. They are great for camping and beach use as they never wear out, wash very nicely and wear like iron. My kids like them on their beds in cold weather too. The colors are always bright and clear and never fade unless you leave them out in the sun for a very long time. If you piece them in a nice pattern you will have plenty of people admiring them.