As a lifelong handquilter I want my stitches to show. Why go to all that trouble if no one can see it including yourself. I "never" quilt in the ditch. I don't see the point. The closest I come to that is echoing the piecing 1/4 inch on either side. I like to use the new varigated threads. They really look cool on a solid colored quilt. If you haven't quilted in years than your current work is really outstanding. I still can't brag about my piecing or applique but I can quilt the crap out of a wholecloth.