I think with busy quilts, especially one like this (SO CUTE by the way!), I tend to do a meander or something that won't take center stage. You want the fabrics to SHINE! I think I would use a tan or grey thread. You will be surprised at how it kind of 'disappears' and you get to see a nice texture. VERY cute! (my fav tip for machine quilting? practice on a white board till you like what you see. You should have SEEN my 1st feathers ACK! What you don't like, you get to ERASE! Don't put your elbow down, you are teaching your shoulder and arm the motion.) don't forget to post finished pictures too!