I had my LAer use a varigated thread and a clemantis flower design and loved it. However, a lot depends on the way the color is changed on the thread. What I mean is how long is each color and how much of a change. I have another small quilt where the design is strange with the varigated due to a big contrast in color on the thread and only part of the design really showing up. If part of the thread blends with the quilt top, it may make the design look awkward. This is where throwing the thread on the quilt top to see what it looks like is necessary.