Originally Posted by rwquilts
When I took a class on needle turn hand applique, the lady who taught the class also recommended silk thread, but she also said this..."if you do applique right, you should be able to use any color thread and it won't show"...I found that silk thread breaks easily and I wanted my projects to be sturdier, so I have used other threads, but by taking tiny stitches the way she taught me, they all work beautifully! Enjoy your time learning and absorb all you can and you will find your own "comfort" and style once you know the basics!
I also use YLI silk thread and love it because it virtually disappears as you needle turn. The above statement is absolutely correct....you can use any thread...just take small stitches. I don't use a straw needle as I find it's too long for me. Have fun, the finished project will be beautiful. I've got several quilt tops going right now. For the 1st time I'm experimenting on the starch method....you can then hand or machine applique. I'm stitching by hand, may try machine for another project. It takes FOREVER to get ready, but, wow, I have an entire top ready in separate baggies and can pick up whenever I want. HAVE FUN:)