I have quilted a few lap quilts using the "big" stitch method. The thread used is the pearl cotton. I used black thread and liked the "old" look it gave the quilt. Much easier, for me anyway, than hand quilting using small stitches.
The process allowed me to quilt a lap quilt in a reasonable time. If you would be interested in seeing pictures send me a PM. I'd be glad to send you pictures of the quilts I have done in the "big" stitch method.