I think with the thread it comes down to which one you like and find easy to work with. There is a disscussion on this board about thread and everyone had their own favorite. Washing fabric-if I buy yardage I wash it, jelly rolls etc. I dont. Color Cather is a great product to use with wahing your handiwork. Another thing about washing fabric,wash all you are using together or dont wash any, Don't use a combo.